Cabergoline

[Rweeks@xxxxxxx]

Joe,
I have responded to questions several times re: Cabergoline trial, but will
update again since you asked.

Cabergoline is not yet on open market.   I have been taking it since Jan
1993.  Maximum recommended dosage is 5 mg./ day.  I have been at 4.5 mg for
about 18 months. (4.5 or 5.5 CR/day for about same time period).  I very
happy with the drug (having heard of side effects from Permax and Parlodil).

Other than nausea during the first 4 months of the trial (felt like morning
sickness - which I hold expert status in the experience which resulted in 3
pre-Parkinson's sons).  I seem to have no other side effects.
The drug is taken only 1xdaily......has a half life in the system of
approximately 64 hours I believe.........so the rollercoaster ups and downs
of the drug day should be reduced significantly as there should be little
wearing off effect of this drug.
I started the drug at .5mg daily and increased about every 3 weeks (by .5
mg).  Noticed some change in rigidity/stiffness at  the 1 mg
level................real change came at the 3 mg level when I seemed to
regain what my husband refers to as "spunk".

I know several other patients on the trial and all have been very pleased
with results..........hope it is soon on the open market so that all of you
may enjoy the benefits.

Rita Weeks