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J Neur N'surg Psych 2000;68 (full-page ad for UK):
The long-lasting dopamine agonist cabergoline (Cabaser) taken
only once a day can relieve fluctuating symptoms of PD. It is
sold in the U.S. as Dostinex, but only for treatment of
hyperprolactinemia, a disorder of the pituitary gland.

Reports about excellent results in treatment of PD appeared
about 5 years ago, but then nothing happened.

Prolactin, one of several hormones secreted by the anterior
pituitary, stimulates lactation in women who have recently
given birth. It is controlled by dopamine from the hypothalamus,
not the substantia nigra, and when it is unexpected, the standard
treatment was the familiar bromocriptine (Parlodel). Cabergoline,
developed by Upjohn, not only requires less frequent dosage but
seems to have milder adverse effects than any of the other common
dopamine agonists. I checked on why it isn't offered in the U.S.
for PD, and found that when Pharmacia bought out Upjohn they were
just about to release pramipexole (Mirapex) and didn't wish to
invest in FDA approval of another drug that would compete with that.
Cheers,
Joe
--
J. R. Bruman   (818) 789-3694
3527 Cody Road
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403-5013