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Bromocriptine

Prescription
Dopamine Agonist / Prolactin Inhibitor
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Ergot-derived D2 dopamine receptor agonist that inhibits prolactin secretion from the anterior pituitary. Also has weak alpha-adrenergic and serotonin receptor activity. Used for pseudopregnancy and pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism.

At a glance

Class
Dopamine Agonist / Prolactin Inhibitor
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light and moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for pseudo-pregnancy/pseudolactation and pituitary-dependent Cushing's (adj
Dose
10–100 mcg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h
🐈

Cat

Used for pseudopregnancy
Dose
25 mcg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light and moisture

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Clinical resolution of pseudopregnancyGI toleranceACTH stimulation test (Cushing's)Prolactin levels if available
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Parlodel

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Bromocriptine?
Bromocriptine is a dopamine agonist / prolactin inhibitor used in pets. Ergot-derived D2 dopamine receptor agonist that inhibits prolactin secretion from the anterior pituitary. Also has weak alpha-adrenergic and serotonin receptor activity. Used for pseudopregnancy and pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism.
What is Bromocriptine used for in pets?
Bromocriptine is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for pseudo-pregnancy/pseudolactation and pituitary-dependent Cushing's (adj; Used for pseudopregnancy.
What is the Bromocriptine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Bromocriptine is typically dosed as follows — Used for pseudo-pregnancy/pseudolactation and pituitary-dependent Cushing's (adj: 10–100 mcg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Bromocriptine dose for cats?
For cats, Bromocriptine is typically dosed as follows — Used for pseudopregnancy: 25 mcg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Bromocriptine need a prescription?
Yes. Bromocriptine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

References

References

The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.

Textbooks & handbooks — 5

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
  • Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
  • Merck Veterinary Manual
  • NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
  • Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)

Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4

  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
  • AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
  • ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
  • RECOVER CPR Guidelines

Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2

  • EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
  • JVIM FAT CAT Study

Regulatory & approvals — 1

  • CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

Databases — 1

  • Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database
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