lactocab 0.5mg tablet - Cabergoline (0.5mg) medicine

Cabergoline 0.5mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Zydus Cadila 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 24, 2026
🤰 Pregnancy Category Not classified by FDA letter categories. Use only if clearly needed and under specialist supervision. Cabergoline is generally avoided during pregnancy unless the benefit outweighs the risk. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
12 min read
Evidence: Well-established for hyperprolactinemia and prolactinoma; limited for other uses.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 24, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Swelling of hands, feet, or ankles
  • Persistent cough or chest pain
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output or abdominal swelling
  • Unusual urges like gambling or compulsive shopping

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is lactocab 0.5mg tablet used for?

Cabergoline 0.5 mg tablet is a dopamine agonist used to treat high prolactin levels and prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors. It works by stimulating dopamine receptors in the brain to reduce prolactin production.

  • Generic Name: Cabergoline (0.5mg)
  • Manufacturer: Zydus Cadila
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 lactocab 0.5mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा कैबरगोलिन 0.5 मिलीग्राम टैबलेट के रूप में उपलब्ध है और मुख्य रूप से प्रोलैक्टिन हार्मोन के अत्यधिक स्तर (हाइपरप्रोलैक्टिनेमिया) और पिट्यूटरी ग्रंथि के प्रोलैक्टिन-स्रावी ट्यूमर (प्रोलैक्टिनोमा) के इलाज के लिए उपयोग की जाती है। यह दवा स्तन से दूध निकलने, अनियमित मासिक धर्म, बांझपन और कामेच्छा में कमी जैसी समस्याओं को ठीक करने में मदद करती है। यह डोपामाइन रिसेप्टर एगोनिस्ट वर्ग की दवा है जो मस्तिष्क में डोपामाइन की तरह काम करके प्रोलैक्टिन के उत्पादन को कम करती है। इस दवा का उपयोग डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना नहीं करना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना, कब्ज और थकान शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों में खड़े होने पर रक्तचाप कम हो सकता है जिससे चक्कर आ सकते हैं। दुर्लभ मामलों में हृदय वाल्व में बदलाव, फेफड़ों में फाइब्रोसिस, और आवेग नियंत्रण विकार हो सकते हैं। यदि आपको सांस लेने में कठिनाई, पैरों में सूजन, या लगातार खांसी हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। अपनी मर्जी से दवा की मात्रा न बदलें और न ही बंद करें। यह दवा चक्कर और निम्न रक्तचाप का कारण बन सकती है, इसलिए बैठने या लेटने से उठते समय धीरे-धीरे उठें। जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह दवा आप पर कैसा असर करती है, तब तक वाहन चलाने या मशीनरी चलाने से बचें। अपने डॉक्टर को हृदय, यकृत या फेफड़ों की किसी भी बीमारी के बारे में बताएं। लंबे समय तक इस दवा का सेवन करने पर नियमित जांच की आवश्यकता हो सकती है। गर्भावस्था के दौरान इस दवा का उपयोग डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना न करें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 lactocab 0.5mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Hyperprolactinemia","description":"This medicine lowers high prolactin levels in the blood, helping to restore normal menstrual cycles, fertility, and reduce unwanted breast milk production.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Prolactinoma","description":"It is used to shrink prolactin-secreting tumors of the pituitary gland and reduce prolactin levels.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Acromegaly","description":"In some cases, it may be used as an add-on treatment for acromegaly when other therapies are not effective.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Suppression of lactation","description":"It may be used to stop breast milk production after childbirth or in cases of stillbirth, but only under specialist care.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Restless legs syndrome","description":"Sometimes prescribed off-label for severe restless legs syndrome, but not a first-line treatment.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Cushing's disease","description":"Rarely used off-label to reduce cortisol levels in Cushing's disease.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Hyperprolactinemia

Also treats: Prolactinoma, Acromegaly, Lactation suppression

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Cabergoline (0.5mg)
Brand Namelactocab 0.5mg tablet
ManufacturerZydus Cadila
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassGYNAECOLOGICAL
Action ClassDopamine agonists-Hyperprolactinemia
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine at the same time each week to maintain consistent levels.
2
Take with food if you experience nausea or stomach upset.
3
Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to avoid dizziness.
4
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
5
Inform your doctor if you experience any unusual urges such as gambling or increased sexual desire.
6
Keep all appointments for blood tests and heart monitoring.
7
Do not stop this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Irregular periods
This medicine is commonly prescribed for hyperprolactinemia causing irregular periods.
Likely Use
✅
Milky discharge from breasts
This medicine helps reduce prolactin levels and stops unwanted milk production.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionCabergoline is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Food does not significantly affect the extent of absorption.
DistributionCabergoline is widely distributed throughout the body. It has a large volume of distribution and is highly bound to plasma proteins.
Protein BindingApproximately 40-42% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismCabergoline is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by hydrolysis and glucuronidation. It is a substrate of CYP3A4, but the main route is non-enzymatic.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life is long, approximately 63 to 68 hours in healthy volunteers, and up to 115 hours in patients with hyperprolactinemia.
ExcretionCabergoline and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the feces (about 60%) and urine (about 22%).
BioavailabilityThe absolute bioavailability is not well established, but oral bioavailability is thought to be moderate. It is not established from the available information.
Onset of ActionProlactin levels begin to fall within a few hours after a single dose, but clinical effects such as restoration of menstrual cycles may take several weeks.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached approximately 2 to 3 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe prolactin-lowering effect persists for up to 14 days after a single dose due to the long half-life.

How It Works

Cabergoline is a long-acting dopamine receptor agonist that binds selectively to dopamine D2 receptors in the pituitary gland. By stimulating these receptors, it inhibits the secretion of prolactin from the anterior pituitary. It also reduces growth hormone secretion in some patients with acromegaly. Its effects are prolonged due to its long half-life and high affinity for the receptor.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to dopamine D2 receptors: Cabergoline binds with high affinity to dopamine D2 receptors located on lactotroph cells in the anterior pituitary gland.
2
Inhibition of prolactin secretion: Activation of these receptors inhibits the release of prolactin into the bloodstream, thereby lowering prolactin levels.
3
Shrinkage of prolactinomas: Chronic suppression of prolactin secretion leads to reduction in size of prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors.
4
Suppression of growth hormone: In acromegaly, cabergoline can also reduce growth hormone secretion, although the effect is variable.

💡 How to Take lactocab 0.5mg tablet

Strength: Cabergoline 0.5 mg immediate-release tablet

1Take this medicine by mouth with or without food.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3Take it at the same time each week as prescribed.
4Do not crush or chew the tablet.
5If you feel nauseous, take it with a light snack.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual starting dose for hyperprolactinemia is 0.5 mg once weekly, which may be increased gradually based on prolactin levels and response. For prolactinoma, the dose may be adjusted up to 1 mg twice weekly or higher under specialist supervision. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine. Start with a lower dose and monitor closely for side effects such as dizziness and low blood pressure.
Renal ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is recommended for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment.
Hepatic ImpairmentDose reduction may be necessary in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Monitor liver function regularly.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended dose varies by indication and is determined by the prescribing clinician. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset and nausea.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of lactocab 0.5mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (up to 10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Headache (Common (up to 10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. Consult doctor if severe or persistent.
Dizziness (Common (up to 10%))
Rise slowly from sitting or lying. Avoid driving if affected.
Constipation (Common (up to 10%))
Increase fiber and fluid intake. Consult doctor if severe.
Fatigue (Common (up to 10%))
Get adequate rest. Consult doctor if it interferes with daily activities.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Heart valve fibrosis (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience shortness of breath, swelling of feet, or chest pain.
Pleural effusion or pulmonary fibrosis (Rare (<0.1%))
Report persistent cough, difficulty breathing, or chest discomfort to your doctor immediately.
Retroperitoneal fibrosis (Very rare (<0.01%))
Seek medical help if you have abdominal or flank pain, decreased urine output, or leg swelling.
Impulse control disorders (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Inform your doctor if you experience increased gambling, shopping, or sexual urges.
Severe hypotension (Rare (<0.1%))
Lie down and seek medical help if you feel faint or have a sudden drop in blood pressure.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Hepatic fibrosis
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal swelling to your doctor.
Cardiac valvulopathy
Regular echocardiograms may be needed. Report any new heart symptoms.
Psychotic episodes
Seek immediate psychiatric help if you experience hallucinations or confusion.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Ergotamine Major
Erythromycin Major
Ketoconazole Major
Haloperidol Major
Metoclopramide Moderate
Fluoxetine Moderate
Propranolol Moderate
Grapefruit juice Minor
Alcohol Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Ergot alkaloids (e.g., ergotamine, methysergide)
  • Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin)
  • Azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole)
  • Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol, risperidone)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Metoclopramide
  • SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine)
  • Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase dizziness, drowsiness, and low blood pressure caused by this medicine. It is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to cabergoline or any component of the tablet","History of cardiac valvulopathy or fibrosis","Pregnancy-induced hypertension (e.g., preeclampsia, eclampsia)","Postpartum women with a history of heart valve disease","Severe hepatic impairment"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause dizziness or low blood pressure; rise slowly from sitting or lying positions.","Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.","Long-term use may cause heart valve changes; regular monitoring is required.","Report any signs of fibrosis such as shortness of breath, persistent cough, or swelling.","Impulse control disorders may occur; inform your doctor if you experience unusual urges.","Do not use during pregnancy unless clearly needed and advised by a specialist.","Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Cabergoline suppresses lactation and is used to stop breast milk production in some cases. It is not recommended during breastfeeding unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness, low blood pressure, and hallucinations. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dose or stop taking it without consulting your clinician. This medicine can cause dizziness or low blood pressure when you stand up, so rise slowly from sitting or lying positions. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart valve disease, liver problems, or lung disorders. Regular monitoring with blood tests and heart scans may be needed during long-term treatment. Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant without first discussing it with your doctor. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it can worsen dizziness. Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially dizziness and low blood pressure. Start with a lower dose and monitor closely. Regular heart and liver function monitoring is advised.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor. This medicine may be stopped or adjusted during pregnancy. Use effective contraception while taking this medicine unless advised otherwise.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may need to be temporarily stopped before surgery. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosing around surgery.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. No specific precautions are usually needed, but maintain good oral hygiene and inform about any bleeding tendencies.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on your body.
🥗
Engage in regular low-impact exercise like walking or swimming.
😴
Practice stress-reducing techniques such as yoga or meditation.
💧
Get adequate sleep to support hormonal balance.
🧘
Avoid alcohol and smoking.
🌞
Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Moderate exercise is generally safe. However, if you experience dizziness or low blood pressure, avoid strenuous activities and rise slowly from positions. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include fiber-rich foods to prevent constipation.
Stay well hydrated throughout the day.
Limit processed and high-fat foods.
Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness and fatigue, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. Most people can continue their normal work routine with minor adjustments.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping abruptly can cause prolactin levels to rise again. Your doctor will decide when and how to taper the dose based on your condition and response.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may be associated with cardiac valvulopathy, pulmonary fibrosis, and retroperitoneal fibrosis. Regular monitoring with echocardiograms and liver function tests is recommended. The dose should be kept as low as possible while maintaining efficacy.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Bromocriptine

Another dopamine agonist that can be used for hyperprolactinemia.

Evidence: Well-established
Quinagolide

A non-ergot dopamine agonist used for hyperprolactinemia.

Evidence: Well-established
Surgery

Transsphenoidal surgery may be considered for large prolactinomas not responding to medication.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific vaccine interactions are known. However, always inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking before receiving any vaccine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, adjust your dosing schedule in consultation with your doctor. Keep enough supply for the entire trip. Declare it at customs if required.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 32-year-old woman with irregular periods and milky discharge from breasts
She was diagnosed with hyperprolactinemia and started on this medicine 0.5 mg once weekly. Within 6 weeks, her prolactin levels normalized and her periods became regular. She experienced mild nausea initially, which improved when she took the tablet with a snack.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine with food can reduce nausea and improve tolerability.
👤 A 45-year-old man with prolactinoma and reduced libido
He was prescribed this medicine 0.5 mg twice weekly. After 3 months, his prolactin levels dropped significantly and his tumor size reduced. He reported improved energy and libido. He had regular echocardiograms to monitor heart health.
💡 Lesson: Regular monitoring with blood tests and heart scans is important during long-term treatment.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: Prolactin levels begin to fall within a few hours, but clinical effects such as regular periods may take several weeks.

Q: Can I take this medicine during pregnancy?

A: It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and under specialist supervision.

Q: What are the long-term effects?

A: Long-term use may cause heart valve changes and fibrosis. Regular monitoring is required.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my heart valves?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for lactocab 0.5mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Cabergoline is a hormone replacement therapy.
    Fact: It is not a hormone; it is a dopamine agonist that lowers prolactin levels.
  • Myth: Cabergoline can be stopped abruptly without doctor's advice.
    Fact: Stopping suddenly can cause prolactin levels to rise again. Always consult your doctor.
  • Myth: Cabergoline is safe to take during pregnancy without any risk.
    Fact: It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and under specialist supervision.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Cabergoline 0.5 mg tablet (generic)

Brand Alternatives

  • Cabergoline 0.5 mg tablet (various manufacturers)

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Cabergoline","class":"Dopamine agonist","half_life":"63-68 hours","frequency":"Once or twice weekly","common_uses":"Hyperprolactinemia, prolactinoma"},{"medicine":"Bromocriptine","class":"Dopamine agonist","half_life":"3-8 hours","frequency":"Once or twice daily","common_uses":"Hyperprolactinemia, acromegaly, Parkinson's disease"},{"medicine":"Quinagolide","class":"Dopamine agonist","half_life":"11-20 hours","frequency":"Once daily","common_uses":"Hyperprolactinemia"}]

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