Cycloset

Cycloset is a prescription medicine approved for the treatment of diabetes. Specifically, it is used in combination with diet and exercise to help control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. The medication comes in tablet form and is usually taken within two hours after waking in the morning. Some of the common side effects of this drug include dizziness, vomiting, and fatigue.

 

What Is Cycloset?

Cycloset (bromocriptine mesylate) is a prescription diabetes medication. It is approved to be used together with diet and exercise to help control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.
 
(Click Cycloset Uses for more information on what the medication is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes This Medication?

Cycloset is made by Patheon, Inc. for VeroScience LLC.
 

How Does Cycloset Work?

Cycloset belongs to a group of medications known as ergot alkaloids.
 It works as a dopamine receptor agonist, which means that it binds to and stimulates dopamine receptors. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter (a chemical that transmits signals between nerves).
 
It is not entirely clear how Cycloset works to control blood sugar, but it is thought that stimulating dopamine receptors in the brain at certain times of the day "resets" the biological clock and improves metabolism. It is thought that seasonal changes in the metabolism of wild animals are due to similar mechanisms.
 
For years, bromocriptine (the active ingredient in Cycloset) has been used to treat Parkinson's disease, acromegaly (a growth disorder), and hyperprolactinemia (a hormone disorder). Only recently has it been approved for treating diabetes.
 

When and How to Take It

Some general considerations include the following:
 
  • Cycloset comes in tablet form. It is taken by mouth within two hours after waking up in the morning.
     
  • Cycloset should be taken with food in order to avoid stomach upset.
     
  • For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed.
 

Dosing Information

The dose your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • How you respond to this medication
  • Other medications you may be taking
  • Other medical conditions you may have.
     
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
(Click Cycloset Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects of Cycloset

As with any medicine, Cycloset may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects (most people actually tolerate it well). If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Some of the most common side effects include, but are not limited to:
 
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Vomiting.
     
(Click Cycloset Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Potential Drug Interactions

Cycloset can potentially interact with a number of other medications (see Cycloset Drug Interactions).
 

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Cycloset?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Cycloset if you have:
 
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Cycloset Warnings and Precautions to learn more, including information on who should not take the drug.)
 

Overdose Information

People who take an overdose of Cycloset may experience effects such as (but not limited to):
 
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Sweating
  • Dizziness
  • Pale skin
  • Very low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • A general ill feeling (malaise)
  • Confusion, delusions, or hallucinations
  • Lethargy or drowsiness
  • Repetitive yawning.
     
If you happen to overdose on Cycloset, seek medical attention immediately.
 
(Click Cycloset Overdose for more information.)
 

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Cycloset?

It is important to take Cycloset within two hours of waking up in the morning. If you miss a dose, simply skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not make up the missed dose later in the day or take a double dose.
 

Storage Methods

Cycloset should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children and pets.
 

Cycloset Strengths

The medication is available in one strength -- Cycloset 0.8 mg tablets.
 

Generic Availability

Cycloset is not available in generic form.
 
(Click Generic Cycloset for more information.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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