Dopaminergic Challenge With Bromocriptine in Patients With Severe Brain Injury

Introduction Bromocriptine Mesylate (BC) is an ergot derivative with potent dopamine receptor agonist activity. It is licensed to reduce plasma levels of prolactin. BC has central nervous effects, and is used in patients with Parkinson’s disease. There are few randomized controlled trials with BC conducted in moderate brain injury (BI) with conflicting results (1). We aim to present our single center experience on dopaminergic challenge using off-label BC in patients with severe BI. Methods Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) are 3-10 (GCS: worst score = 3, best score = 15) at beginning of BC administration. Patients received 2.5mg of BC q6h after hemodynamic stability was ensured and no further neurologic improvement was observed during course of management. BC was started and discontinued on the discretion of the ICU team. Long term cognitive tests are under assessment.