Ropinirole
Information about Ropinirole
Ropinirole uses
Ropinirole is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and restless leg syndrome.
How ropinirole works
Ropinirole works by increasing the action of dopamine, a chemical messenger that is needed to control movement in the brain.
Common side effects of ropinirole
Headache, Dizziness, Fainting, Sleepiness, Vomiting, Weakness, Nausea, Edema (swelling), Hallucination, Confusion, Hypotension (low blood pressure), High blood pressure, Increased sweating, Joint pain, Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the throat and nasal passages), Pleural effusion
Available Medicine for Ropinirole
Expert advice for Ropinirole
- You have been prescribed Ropinirole to treat your symptoms of Parkinson's disease and/or restless leg syndrome.
- It can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may reduce nausea.
- For restless leg syndrome, take this medicine 2 to 3 hours before bedtime.
- Avoid activities that require you to be alert, such as driving a car until you know how this medication affects you.
- When you first start taking Ropinirole, it may cause sudden drop in your blood pressure when you change positions. To lower the chance of feeling dizzy or passing out, rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down.
- Inform your doctor if you develop compulsive behaviors that are hard to control, such as binge eating, gambling, spending money, and sexual urges.
- Talk to your doctor in case you develop hallucinations or other changes in your behavior.
- Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without talking to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions for Ropinirole
Ropinirole
Q. How long does Ropinirole take to work?
You may be able to see improvement within a week. However, it may take longer and differs from individual to individual.
Q. Can I stop taking Ropinirole if I do not see any improvement in my symptoms?
No, you should not stop taking Ropinirole on your own as you may experience anxiety, depression, lack of interest, tiredness, sweating and severe pain in the leg. The dose should be reduced slowly. In some patients, it may take longer to see improvement but not beyond 12 weeks. Talk to your doctor if you want to stop it.
Q. Can I take gabapentin and Ropinirole together?
Yes, you can take gabapentin and Ropinirole together. However, be careful as taking these two medicines together may cause excessive drowsiness, dizziness and decrease your mental alertness. So, you may have to avoid driving, operating machinery or working at heights while taking the two medicines together.