Quinagolide is used to treat high prolactin level in the blood which is characterised by symptoms such as over-production of breastmilk, irregular menstrual cycle, low sexual drive, and infertility.
Prolactin is a hormone present in the body which stimulates breast development and promotes milk production during and after giving birth.
Take Quinagolide exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take it together with food or immediately after a meal.
It is best to take it at bedtime. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Quinagolide must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- liver disease
- kidney disease
as Quinagolide may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- women of childbearing age who do not wish to conceive
- Parkinson’s disease (disorder that affects movement of a person, causing symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movement and impaired balance or walking)
- history of mental illness
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Quinagolide reduces production of breastmilk, so breastfeeding might not be possible while taking this medicine.
If you experience any changes in your mood or behaviour, inform your doctor immediately.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Your blood pressure may fall to unsafe levels without you noticing it. You may monitor your blood pressure during the first days of your therapy.
- Your doctor may also need to do routine blood tests while you are being treated with this medicine.
Quinagolide may cause drowsiness or dizziness. This medicine may also cause you to suddenly fall asleep during your daily activities such as eating and watching television. You may not feel drowsy before you fall asleep. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: nasal congestion, nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, constipation, diarrhoea, fatigue, flushing, loss of appetite, low blood pressure, difficulty in sleeping and unusual changes in mood or behaviour (being too depressed, agitated, or having compulsive and impulsive behaviour).
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicine for mood disorders (e.g. clozapine)
- medicines for high blood pressure or heart disease
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Quinagolide.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol. Alcohol will worsen the dizziness and drowsiness caused by Quinagolide.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.