Cycloset vs. Bromocriptine for Diabetes Type 2 and Parkinson's Disease: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Cycloset

(bromocriptine)

Bromocriptine

(Parlodel)

Summary for Cycloset

Prescription only

Cycloset, the brand name for bromocriptine, is used along with a nutritious diet and exercise plan to improve blood sugar levels in adults with Type 2 diabetes. But it isn't a first-choice treatment option. Cycloset (bromocriptine) is a type of medication called a dopamine agonist. It comes as tablets that are taken by mouth once per day (within 2 hours of waking up). Side effects include nausea, headache, and sleepiness.

Indications for Cycloset

Improving blood sugar levels in adults with Type 2 diabetes, as an add-on to a nutritious diet and exercise routine

Pros and Cons for Cycloset

Pros

Taken once a day
Helps your body use insulin better
Can take with other diabetes medications

Cons

Typically need to take more than 1 tablet for each dose
Not a first-choice treatment for Type 2 diabetes
Risk of unpleasant side effects, like impulsive behavior and hallucinations (seeing things that aren't real)

Common Side Effects for Cycloset

Nausea (33%)
Stuffy nose (14%)
Headache (13%)
Dizziness (13%)
Weakness or low energy (13%)
Constipation (11%)
Sinus infection (10%)

Warnings for Cycloset

Low blood pressure, leading to risk of falls
Worsening mental health
Intense urges
Extreme sleepiness
Not for use after giving birth or while breastfeeding

Summary for Bromocriptine

Prescription only

Bromocriptine (Parlodel) is used to treat conditions associated with high prolactin levels, as well as Parkinson's disease and acromegaly (too much growth hormone). This medication is available as a generic or brand name (Parlodel). Nausea, constipation, and dizziness are common side effects of bromocriptine (Parlodel). While there's limited information available, reports suggest that bromocriptine (Parlodel) doesn't seem to raise the risk for birth defects if taken by mothers during pregnancy.

Indications for Bromocriptine

High levels of growth hormone in adults (acromegaly)
Conditions related to high levels of prolactin (hyperprolactinemia)
Parkinson's disease (PD)

Pros and Cons for Bromocriptine

Pros

Can treat many different conditions
Only needs to be taken once or twice a day
Available as a lower-cost generic
Dose can be adjusted based on your response

Cons

Commonly causes nausea as a side effect
Can cause changes in blood pressure
Only comes as a 2.5 mg tablet or 5 mg capsule, so you might need to take a lot of pills if you're taking a high dose
Should be taken with food