Dostinex, generically sold as cabergoline, is a medication used to stop the production and release the hormone prolactin in your pituitary gland, which is located in your brain. Dostinex can be also used to manage fertility problems, menstrual problems and prolactinomas (pituitary gland tumors), according to the Mayo Clinic. Dostinex is available as a tablet and is usually taken until your prolactin levels normalize for about six months.
Pulmonary Fibrosis and Pleural Effusion
According to Drugs.com, Dostinex can lead to pulmonary (of the lungs and airways) fibrosis or pleural effusion. In pulmonary fibrosis, you may develop scarring or thickening of your lung tissue. Symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis include chest pain or cough. In pleural effusion, fluid seeps into the space between your chest cavity and lungs. Some symptoms of a pleural effusion include chest pain, cough and hiccups. These two conditions are dangerous and usually develop after chronic Dostinex use. Medications and oxygen therapy can usually treat your symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis. However, a lung transplant may be your only treatment option if your lungs are severely scarred. Your doctor can also perform a special procedure to remove the fluid from your lungs if you suffer from a pleural effusion.
Common Problems
The Mayo Clinic states that common side effects include stomach pain, vertigo and headache. Dizziness, nausea and weakness are also common. These symptoms can prove dangerous if they persist. Your doctor may adjust the dosage of your medication and the symptoms can disappear. Everyone responds differently to Dostinex, so your doctor may have to change your medication if a dosage change proves futile.
Mental Complications
Dostinex can affect your mental state and cause an increased sex drive and pathological gambling, a condition in which gambling is addictive and irresistible, according to Drugs.com. It may also lead to hypersexuality. Notify your doctor if you have these symptoms.
Infrequent Side Effects
The Mayo Clinic states that you may seldom develop visual changes, appetite loss or changes in your weight. Swelling of the hands, feet or ankles and tachycardia (fast heartbeat) are rare. Dry mouth and diarrhea are also possible. These changes can be bothersome. Problems seeing can affect your driving. Appetite loss and weight changes are potentially life-threatening because your body will not be absorbing enough nutrients. Swelling and a fast heartbeat can be a sign of serious medical condition. Be proactive about your health and seek help promptly.
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