Blood Pressure Monitoring Required for Bromocriptine Use
The MHRA has issued a safety update following a Yellow Card report concerning bromocriptine prescribed for prevention or inhibition of post-partum physiological lactation. A safety review has concluded that blood pressure monitoring is essential when prescribing this medication.
Key Points
- Bromocriptine carries a risk of blood pressure elevation in post-partum patients
- Baseline blood pressure assessment and ongoing monitoring are recommended before and during treatment
- Healthcare providers should be alert to signs of hypertension or hypertensive crisis
- Patient counselling should include awareness of potential cardiovascular effects
Affected Medication
- Bromocriptine – all formulations used for post-partum lactation prevention or inhibition
Recommended Actions
- Check blood pressure before initiating bromocriptine therapy
- Implement regular blood pressure monitoring during treatment
- Document baseline readings and any changes in patient records
- Advise patients to report headache, visual disturbances, chest pain, or other signs of hypertension
- Review the full MHRA guidance for additional clinical context