I tool Parlodel for seven years, and eventually had to stop (dose 10 mg/day) due to intolerable side effects. This was a difficult med to begin (immediate side effects when building tolerance); then was somewhat OK for a while, and eventually intolerable. Most of what I have read (I am a medical research geek for a living) points toward Dostinex being much more tolerable and more effective. In side-by-side blinded randomized clinical trials, Dostinex wins consistently, with similar side effects to be clear, but reduced frequency and/or severity when experienced. That being said, reading some of these boards more recently, it is also clear that reaction is quite personal. There IS evidence -- from the same trials I just mentioned -- that Dostinex is superior to Parlodel in terms of effectiveness: it is often true that patients who do not respond to Parlodel have far better response on Dostinex. It is NOT true that if one fails, the other will as well -- it is important (when you have time -- and I know that is your current issue) -- to try both. I switched to Dostinex recently, and am thrilled with how much easier it is on me -- no side effects to speak of. The side effects of elevated PRL are far worse than the meds -- and this was NOT true on Parlodel after a while. Parlodel is often used as the first option because it is significantly cheaper, now that is is available in a generic (bromocriptine). Dostinex costs more, so some docs don't try it unless Parlodel fails. I should have insisted on a change sooner. I did not realize after a while how much of my misery was the Parlodel until I was off it again. It would take a month to initiate Dostinex therapy: it is a much more long-acting ant potent med, such that when you increase the dose, it should only be done at one-month intervals. If there is time to do that while your docs continue to make arrangements for your surgery, that may be worth a try -- just to see. In any case, good luck!!! | 