Cabaser

What is it?

A dopamine agonist, cabergoline, available as white scored tablets in strengths of 1, 2 and 4mg.

Medical Uses

Treatment of Parkinson's disease in concert with levodopa and a dopa-carboxylase inhibitor, for patients with daily fluctuations in motor performance.

Dosage

1mg per day with food to start increasing gradually by 0.5 to 1 mg per day at intervals of 1 to 2 weeks, with concurrent reduction in levodopa to gain best response. Usually, end dose is in the order of 2 to 6mg per day. Not recommended for children.

Special Care

Severe cardiovascular disease, liver impairment, past respiratory disorders with pleural effusion% fibrosis, stomach ulcer, gastrointestinal bleeding, past psychoses, Raynaud's syndrome. Patient must be monitored for fibrosis and drug should be withdrawn if these appear.

Avoid Use

Breastfeeding, pregnancy (cease at least 1 month before conception), hypersensitivity to ergot alkaloids.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Ergot alkaloids, doparnine antagonists, neuroleptics, macrolides, antihypertensives.

Known Side Effects

Angina, fluid retention, confusion, low blood pressure, fibrosis/ pleural effusion, hallucinations, disorders of normal movement.

Manufacturer

Pharmacia.