Dostinex (Cabergoline) Dosage Guide in Pakistan

Dostinex (Cabergoline) correct dose and schedule are decided by your doctor based on prolactin levels. This guide covers how to take it, missed dose, and essential precautions.

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated: 2026-06-17

Dosage Guide

Quick Answer

Dostinex (Cabergoline) is typically prescribed twice weekly (e.g. twice per week on non-consecutive days), with food to reduce nausea. The dose and frequency are determined by your doctor based on prolactin levels. First dose may cause postural hypotension — take in the evening so you can lie down if needed. Never change dose without your doctor's advice.

Dose at a Glance

Adult Dose

As prescribed — typically 0.25mg or 0.5mg twice weekly

Twice weekly

Max: Do not exceed the recommended limit — the doctor adjusts based on prolactin levels

Child Dose (Adults only)

Not established in children

Paediatric use is not established

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if the next dose is not close. If the next dose is close, skip it. Never take a double dose.

Overdose

In case of overdose, contact a doctor or emergency services immediately. Cabergoline overdose can cause nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, postural hypotension, and psychiatric symptoms.

Dostinex (Cabergoline) Dosage (Kitni leni hai)

Dostinex (Cabergoline) dose is decided by your doctor based on prolactin levels and the condition. Always follow your doctor's prescription.

Adult Dose (Baalgon ke liye)

Twice weekly — on non-consecutive days
Take with food — reduces nausea
Taking the first dose in the evening is better
Do not exceed the recommended limit — dose is adjusted based on prolactin test results

Starting Dose: Start with a low dose — the doctor gradually adjusts based on prolactin levels

Usual Dose: As prescribed — typically 0.25mg or 0.5mg twice weekly

Max Daily Dose: Do not exceed the doctor's instructions

Child Dose (Bachon ke liye)

Cabergoline is not established for children — paediatric use should not occur without a specialist.

How to Take (Kaise leni hai)

Twice weekly — same days, same time
With food — significantly reduces nausea
First dose in the evening — precaution for postural hypotension
Swallow the tablet whole
Rise slowly when standing up

Best Time to Take (Kab leni chahiye)

With food
First doses in the evening — BP may drop the first time

With Food or Empty Stomach (Khali pait ya khane ke baad)

Taking it with food is essential — it dramatically reduces nausea. Taking on an empty stomach causes more side effects at the start of treatment.

Missed Dose (Dose chhoot jaye to kya karein)

Take it as soon as you remember if the next dose is not close. If it is close, skip it. Never take a double dose.

Overdose (Zyada Dose)

In case of overdose, contact a doctor or emergency services immediately. Nausea, vomiting, BP drop, or psychiatric symptoms can occur.

Dose Summary Table

Patient	Dose	Notes
Adult (hyperprolactinaemia)	0.25–0.5mg twice weekly	With food, first dose in the evening
Adult (prolactinoma)	As prescribed — may be higher	Specialist supervision required
Child	Not established	Paediatric use not recommended

The information in this guide is for educational purposes only. Always confirm the dose with your doctor or pharmacist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dostinex kitni baar leni chahiye?

Dostinex (Cabergoline) is generally taken twice weekly — on non-consecutive days. This is a major advantage over bromocriptine — it does not need to be taken daily. The doctor adjusts the dose based on prolactin levels.

Kya Dostinex khane ke saath leni chahiye?

Yes — taking it with food is better. It significantly reduces nausea, especially at the start of treatment. Taking the first dose in the evening is better so that you can lie down if BP drops.

Pehli dose par kya احتیاط zaroor hai?

After the first dose, BP can drop (postural hypotension) — so take the first dose in the evening so you can lie down. Rising quickly can cause dizziness — get up slowly. This generally settles after a few doses.

Agar Dostinex ki dose bhool jaye to kya karein?

Take it as soon as you remember if the next dose is not close. If the next dose is close, skip it. Never take a double dose. Discuss missed doses with your doctor at the next appointment.

Dostinex kitne waqt tak leni chahiye?

Duration is decided by the doctor based on prolactin levels and the condition. In some patients, prolactin normalises within 1–2 years and stopping the medicine is tried. In prolactinoma, long-term treatment may be needed. Do not stop on your own.

Sources

DRAP Registered Products Database — Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan
WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd ed. (2023) — World Health Organization
British National Formulary (BNF) — BMJ Group & Pharmaceutical Press

Medical disclaimer

This page is for educational use only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always confirm diagnosis, dose, and interactions with a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medicine.