Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Cabergoline Pill

Cabergoline is a dopamine D2 receptor agonist that suppresses prolactin secretion from the pituitary gland.

Cabergoline is a dopamine D2 receptor agonist that suppresses prolactin secretion from the pituitary gland. Used for Hyperprolactinemia and prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas (prolactinomas), Restoration of ovulatory cycles and fertility in women with hyperprolactinemia-induced anovulation.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Cabergoline binds to dopamine D2 receptors on lactotroph cells in the anterior pituitary, mimicking dopamine's inhibitory effect on prolactin release. By reducing circulating prolactin levels, it restores normal gonadal function and fertility in patients with hyperprolactinemia. This mechanism makes it particularly useful in treating prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas and restoring ovulatory cycles in women with elevated prolactin.

Approved indications

• Hyperprolactinemia and prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas (prolactinomas)
• Restoration of ovulatory cycles and fertility in women with hyperprolactinemia-induced anovulation

Common side effects

• Nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Orthostatic hypotension
• Abdominal pain

Key clinical trials

• Safety and Potency of a High Cabergoline Dosage in Microprolactinomas (PHASE3)
• Cabergoline for Lactation Inhibition After Early Second-Trimester Abortion or Pregnancy Loss (PHASE2)
• Cabergoline for Lactation Inhibition After Second-Trimester Abortion or Loss (PHASE2)
• Cabergoline Before or After Oocyte Collection for Follicular Resolution (PHASE4)
• A Study of Cabergoline for the Treatment of Cocaine Dependence - 1 (PHASE2)
• Effect of Cabergoline on Weight and Glucose Tolerance (PHASE1, PHASE2)
• A Pilot Study of Cabergoline for the Treatment of Cocaine Dependence (PHASE1)

Primary sources

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