Mirapex (pramiprexole) is a medication used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). Mirapex works by stimulating the dopamine receptors in the motor centers of the brain, and it can have some troubling side effects depending upon when and how it is taken.
Mirapex for Restless Leg Syndrome
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a condition characterized by unpleasant sensations in the legs such as burning, itching or crawling that create an irresistible urge to move the legs. Symptoms occur during periods of inactivity or rest and are more troubling at night because of sleep disturbance. The cause of RLS is unknown but it may be related to loss of dopamine activity.
For treatment of RLS, Mirapex should be taken 2 or 3 hours before bedtime to relieve nighttime symptoms and promote healthy sleep. Mirapex for RLS should only be taken at night. If a nighttime dose is missed, it should not be taken in the morning and should not be doubled the following evening. The most common side effects for RLS patients taking Mirapex are nausea and daytime sleepiness, but these usually disappear as a person becomes used to taking it.
Mirapex for Parkinson's disease
Parkinson's disease is a movement disorder caused by the loss of dopamine activity in the motor centers of the brain. PD symptoms include tremor or trembling, rigidity or stiffness, bradykinesia or slowness of movement, and impaired balance and coordination.
Mirapex should be taken three times a day for Parkinson's disease. Because a larger amount of Mirapex is taken for Parkinson's disease, there are more side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, dizziness, sleepiness, insomnia, constipation, hallucinations and weakness. If a dose of Mirapex is missed, do not attempt to catch up by doubling a dose---simply take the next scheduled dose as normal.
Other Effects of Mirapex
Whether Mirapex is taken for Parkinson's disease or RLS, some patients have reported sudden dizziness and an irresistible urge to sleep during the day while taking Mirapex. It is important that driving and other activities requiring alertness be limited until one knows how Mirapex will affect them. Other medications that cause drowsiness should be avoided if possible.
Other patients have reported feeling faint when standing up, so it is important to stand slowly after sitting or lying down to avoid a sudden drop in blood pressure. Compulsive behaviors such as gambling, eating and shopping, along with hallucinations such as hearing voices or seeing objects, have become a problem for some, and any of these symptoms should be immediately reported to a physician.
Mirapex may be taken with food to reduce symptoms of nausea. Mirapex should not be taken by those who are allergic or intolerant to pramiprexole and should not be taken during pregnancy, as animal studies have shown possible birth disorders. The patient's physician should be told of any other medication being taken to avoid possible drug interactions involving the kidneys, blood pressure and nervous system. When stopping Mirapex therapy, the medication may need to be tapered down slowly and not discontinued suddenly.
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