Approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2009 for treatment of type 2 diabetes, bromocriptine, under the brand name of Cycloset, is a drug used to manage blood glucose through brain signals and the central nervous system. It has been shown to reduce HbA1c levels and inhibit the release of glutamate. It is a dopamine agonist used for many years to treat certain types of pituitary tumors and more recently, for Parkinson’s disease. An agonist is a chemical that binds to a cell’s receptor to trigger a response, often by mimicking the action of a substance that occurs naturally in the body. It was found in studies that dopamine levels were low in people with metabolic disease, which contributes to conditions such as insulin resistance.
Bromocriptine Side Effects: What Are The Risks?
In the treatment of diabetes, bromocriptine side effects can include indigestion, stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, headaches, stuffy nose, fatigue, dry mouth, cold sensitivity in fingers and toes, and orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure and dizzy spells). More serious symptoms can include allergic reactions, back or chest pain, or shortness of breath. There may be swelling of the legs, ankles or feet, and the drug might aggravate existing liver problems for those with diabetes. Bromocriptine use has also generated reports of psychotic symptoms (or worsening conditions). This is not a complete list of possible side effects, so you should consult your doctor for more information. Unlike other diabetes drugs, bromocriptine does not seem to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Bromocriptine Alternatives: What Are Your Options?
Many diabetics and healthcare professionals are now realizing that to treat type 2 diabetes, bromocriptine and other prescription medications, due to their many health concerns, are not the answer. These drugs should be considered only if nothing else has worked to control blood sugar and diabetic symptoms. Your best approach is to first examine your lifestyle, and focus on eliminating unhealthy foods, such as saturated and trans fats (dairy products, fatty meats, crackers and chips, margarines and shortening, french fries), sugary foods and drinks (cake, cookies, muffins, ice cream, candy, sodas), and starchy foods (white bread, white rice, pasta, cereals, potatoes, corn). Substitute processed foods with fresh fruits and vegetables (especially foods rich in fiber), beans and legumes, nuts, whole wheat bread, “good” fats (avocado, canola oil, nuts, olives and sesame seeds), and healthy omega-3, peanut and olive oils. Drink ample water throughout the day (8 glasses per day is recommended), and exercise daily. Consider dietary supplements if you are deficient in any vitamins or minerals. Especially helpful for those with diabetes are chromium, magnesium and zinc. There are also herbs such as gymnema sylvestre (used in ayurvedic medicine for centuries) that can lower blood sugar. For well-balanced blood sugar and treatment of diabetes, bromocriptine is definitely not your only option!
