Requip®
Requip® belongs to a class of drugs known as dopamine agonists. These drugs stimulate the dopamine receptors in the brain and mimic the effects of dopamine at the receptors. This helps compensate for the absence of the neurotransmitter dopamine in patients with Parkinson's disease.
It is believed that the symptoms of Parkinson's disease are caused by a lack of dopamine. Difficulty in movement results when too little dopamine is produced.
Requip can be used as the only treatment in early stages of Parkinson's disease or in combination with other medications (Sinemet®) in late Parkinson's disease.
Requip is available in six different dosage forms.
Things to know
- Rise slowly from a sitting or lying position. Requip may cause a drop in blood pressure upon standing (orthostatic hypotension).
- Sleepiness, drowsiness or sedation may be observed. Do not drive or perform activities that require mental alertness until stabilized on the medication. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
- This drug may cause hallucinations or confusion. Let us or your neurologist know if this occurs. You may need a reduction in dosage.
- Nausea and vomiting may be side effects of this medication. You can take Requip with food to decrease nausea.
- You may notice swelling of your legs. Please notify us or your neurologist if this occurs.
- If you experience dyskinesias, spontaneous involuntary movements, let us or your neurologist know. You may need to decrease the dose.
