CABER 1

Cabergoline is a long-acting dopamine D2 receptor agonist primarily used in the treatment of hyperprolactinemia and disorders associated with elevated prolactin levels, such as prolactinomas and pituitary adenomas. It works by directly stimulating dopamine receptors in the anterior pituitary, leading to inhibition of prolactin secretion. Cabergoline has a high affinity for D2 receptors and a prolonged half-life (up to 65 hours), allowing for once- or twice-weekly oral dosing. Compared to older dopamine agonists like bromocriptine, cabergoline is better tolerated and associated with fewer gastrointestinal side effects. It is also used off-label for conditions such as Parkinson’s disease (as adjunctive therapy) and for the management of dopamine-sensitive pituitary tumors. Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, orthostatic hypotension, and in rare cases, cardiac valvulopathy, particularly at higher doses. Regular echocardiographic monitoring is advised in patients on long-term or high-dose therapy.