Bromocriptine (Parlodel) is a dopamine agonist drug (meaning it acts like dopamine in the brain), primarily activating the dopamine D2 receptors. It’s main use is for the treatment of high prolactin, Parkinson’s disease, and acromegaly; it was also used by bodybuilders in the 80’s for it’s GH releasing properties. However, it’s metabolic effects are far greater than that.
In genetically obese rats, bromocriptine normalizes metabolism and there are many good reasons to think it will do the same in humans. Bromocriptine has use during dieting (to minimize the negative adaptations), muscle gain when very lean, and may be beneficial post-steroid cycle. It may also be useful for diabetes treatment and may have pro-sexual effects.
Bromocriptine has a half-life of roughly 12-14 hours, and dosing is 2.5-5 mg/day taken in the morning.
Bromocriptine is the chemical name of active ingredient in Parlodel. Parlodel is a registered trademark of Sandoz Pharmaceuticals in the United States and/or other countries.
