Cabergoline
Cabergoline (brand names Dostinex and Cabaser), an
ergot derivative, is a potent
dopamine receptor agonist on
D2 receptors. Rat studies show cabergoline has a direct
inhibitory effect on
pituitary lactotroph (
prolactin) cells.
It is frequently used as a first-line agent in the management of
prolactinomas due to higher affinity for D
2 receptor sites, less severe side effects, and more convenient dosing schedule than the older
bromocriptine.