Parlodel Oral Uses This medication is used alone or with other medications (e.g., levodopa) to treat Parkinson's disease. It can improve your ability to move and decrease shakiness (tremor), stiffness, slowed movement, and unsteadiness. It may also decrease the number of episodes of not being able to move ("on-off syndrome"). Bromocriptine is also used to treat hormonal problems caused by high levels of a certain chemical made by the body (prolactin). Such problems include unwanted breast milk, missed/stopped periods, difficulty becoming pregnant, decreased sperm production, and decreased sexual ability. Because of possible serious side effects (e.g., high blood pressure, seizure, heart attack, stroke), bromocriptine is not recommended for stopping unwanted breast milk after pregnancy, miscarriage, or abortion. This medication is also used alone or with other treatments to lower high growth hormone levels (acromegaly). Bromocriptine is also used to treat prolactin-secreting tumors. It may be used to reduce the tumor size before surgery or to control symptoms until other treatments start working. Bromocriptine is an ergot medication that works by helping to restore the balance of a certain natural substance (dopamine) in the brain. It also prevents the release of certain hormones (growth hormone, prolactin). Bromocriptine can lower these hormone levels, but it does not cure the causes of the increased levels. How to use Parlodel Oral Take this medication by mouth with food, usually 1-2 times a day or as directed by your doctor. Your doctor may start your treatment at a lower dose and gradually increase it to find the best dose for you. The first dose should be taken lying down (e.g., at bedtime) because dizziness may occur, especially with the first dose. The dosage is based on your medical condition, the condition being treated, and your response to therapy. Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. For Parkinson's disease, your doctor will adjust your dose based on your symptoms and side effects. Your doctor may direct you to lower your levodopa dose after you start this medication. Do not change or stop your medication without talking with your doctor first. For high prolactin levels, it may take 6-8 weeks for the effects of high prolactin to decrease. It may take up to 12 months before you get the full benefit of this medication. For acromegaly, your doctor will monitor your growth hormone levels and adjust the dose. Do not stop taking this medication without your doctor's approval. If you suddenly stop taking this drug, withdrawal reactions may occur. Such reactions can include fever, muscle stiffness, and confusion. Report any such reactions to your doctor immediately. When stopping extended, regular treatment with this drug, gradually reducing the dosage as directed will help prevent withdrawal reactions. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen.