Ergot Dopamine Receptor Agonists

Bromocriptine is a medication used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, hyperprolactinemia, and Type II DM.  Bromocriptine stimulates dopamine-2 receptors, which is the reason for its indication in Parkinson's disease.  Cabergoline is indicated in the treatment of hyperprolactinemia. Stimulation of dopamine receptors reduces the release of prolactin from the pituitary gland.  Bromocriptine actions in Type II DM are not well known but may have to do with resetting the hypothalamus' drive to increase plasma glucose levels. Bromocriptine has significant side effects including pulmonary and retroperitoneal fibrosis, which limits its use.

Class Drugs

• Bromocriptine

Class Mechanism of Action

Stimulates primarily dopamine receptors.

Diagram of ergot receptor agonist mechanism of action

Class Application

Hyperprolactinemia

• Stimulation of D2 receptors decreases the release of prolactin.

Class Adverse Effects

Headaches

Nausea

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Bromocriptine	Parkinson's Disease; Type II DM; Hyperprolactinemia	Significant and generally limits bromocriptine use.; Sedation; Hallucinations; Nausea; Hypotension; Confusion; Pulmonary and retroperitoneal fibrosis	"Broom" and "Crypt"
Cabergoline	Hyperprolactinemia		"Cab" "Goal Line"