Salts
Uses
Mechanism of Action
Dosage
Side Effects
Warnings/Precautions
Ropinirole is used to treat moderate to severe restless legs syndrome (crawling or bubbling sensation causing irresistible leg movements) of unknown origin
Mechanism of Action
Ropinirole acts in specific areas of brain to stimulate proteins called dopamine receptors, and relieves the unpleasant sensation thereby reducing the urge to move the legs and other limbs
Dosage
As monotherapy in Parkinson's disease - Initially, 250 mcg tid, may increase by 750 mcg at weekly intervals for the first 4 week Subsequent increments can be made in steps of 1.5 mg at weekly intervals up to 9 mg/day, then in steps of 3 mg at weekly intervals Usual dose ranges from 3-9 mg daily Max: 24 mg/day Higher dose may be necessary if used in conjunction with levodopa Restless leg syndrome - Initially, 250 mcg daily for 2 days, taken 1-3 hour before bedtime May increase to 500 mcg daily for the next few days Subsequent increments may be made in steps of 500 mcg at weekly intervals until 3 mg daily is reached Max: 4 mg daily
Side Effects
Fainting Hearing or feeling things that are not really there Hallucinations Heartburn Vomiting Drowsiness Increased libido Worsening of restless leg syndrome Confusion Stomach pain Mental or physical tiredness Involuntary muscle movements
Warnings/Precautions
Do not use ropinirole, if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to ropinirole or any of the ingredients in the medicine Patient taking ropinirole are advised to exercise caution while driving or operating machines as it can cause excessive sleepiness Avoid taking ropinirole if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding Do not take ropinirole, if you have severe heart problems; serious mental health problem; experienced unusual urges (like excessive sexual behavior or gambling etc.); undergoing hormone replacement therapy