Bromocriptine Mesylate Tablet
Bromocriptine Mesylate is available as an FDA-approved commercial product and as a compounded formulation, prepared by Mixlab for veterinary use in dogs. Available by prescription.
The uses and pharmacology described below reflect the FDA-approved labeling for this active ingredient; your veterinarian determines whether and how they apply to your animal's treatment plan.
Bromocriptine mesylate is an ergot-derived dopamine D2-receptor agonist. On the FDA-approved human label, it is indicated for hyperprolactinemia and prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors, for acromegaly, and for Parkinson's disease; a separate quick-release formulation is also FDA-approved as an adjunct for glycemic control in type 2 diabetes. Its shared mechanism across these uses is stimulation of dopamine receptors, which — depending on the tissue — suppresses prolactin secretion from the pituitary or supports dopaminergic signaling in the central nervous system.
In veterinary reproductive medicine, bromocriptine's prolactin-suppressing effect is the basis for its off-label use in dogs, most often to help resolve pseudopregnancy, and — alongside cabergoline, a related dopamine agonist — as part of some non-surgical management protocols considered for bitches with reproductive-tract conditions where an owner wishes to preserve future fertility. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing, or monitoring. Compounded drugs are not approved by the FDA for safety or effectiveness.
Commonly reported effects include nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, lethargy, and behavioral changes, particularly at higher doses; giving this medication with food may reduce gastrointestinal upset. As a dopamine agonist, it can cause hypotension, and animals with pre-existing cardiovascular disease should be monitored closely, especially when starting treatment. Cabergoline is the more commonly used dopamine agonist for these purposes in veterinary reproductive medicine, with a somewhat different gastrointestinal side-effect profile; your veterinarian will determine which agent is appropriate.
Bromocriptine mesylate is an ergot alkaloid — those who are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are nursing should avoid handling this medication, as ergot derivatives can affect uterine tone and lactation. Use caution with other drugs that affect dopamine pathways (for example, metoclopramide and phenothiazine-class drugs, which have opposing effects), with other antihypertensive medications, and with drugs that inhibit CYP3A4 metabolism (for example, certain macrolide antibiotics), which can increase bromocriptine levels.
When used as part of medical management for reproductive-tract conditions, this approach requires close veterinary supervision and is not appropriate for animals that are systemically ill; your veterinarian will determine whether medical or surgical management is more appropriate for your pet.
Yes. Bromocriptine mesylate is available only by prescription from a licensed veterinarian, and Mixlab compounds it under that prescription.
Both. Mixlab can dispense the FDA-approved commercial tablet or capsule, or compound the active ingredient into an alternative strength or format if your veterinarian determines that better suits your pet's needs — for example, when the commercial tablet strength doesn't allow for accurate dosing at the size used in dogs. The decision between a commercial and compounded product rests with the prescribing veterinarian.
Bromocriptine works by suppressing prolactin. In veterinary medicine, it has been used off-label to help resolve pseudopregnancy and, in some cases, as part of non-surgical management approaches for certain reproductive-tract conditions. Your veterinarian determines whether this medication is appropriate for your pet's specific situation.
Bromocriptine mesylate is an ergot alkaloid that can affect uterine tone and lactation. Anyone who is pregnant, may become pregnant, or is nursing should avoid direct handling and consult their own physician with questions.
