Ropinirole

Ropinirole or Requip remains a popular treatment for Parkinson's Disease and also was once widely prescribed for troublesome Restless Leg Syndrome. Ropinirole is available as an extended release form for Parkinson's Disease and an immediate release form taken 1-3 hours before bedtime mostly in those with restless leg syndrome.

Ropinirole must be slowly titrated over several weeks to an appropriate dose. In early Parkinson's Disease, Ropinirole may be the only drug necessary. Typically up to 12 mg may be required. In more advanced disease ropinirole may be added to levodopa. In these instances the total dose generally remains up to 8 mg. Ropinirole provides relief from Parkinson's disease associated tremor, rigidity, slowness of movement and balance issues.

In RLS, only the immediate release form of ropinirole is recommended with no more than 4 mg each day. Augmentation or worsening of the underlying RLS frequently occurs after about 6 months. This leads to an ever increasing spiral of drug use culminating in painful withdrawal. Ropinirole should now be limited to more severe instances of RLS.

Recently added cautions warn of heightened risk of impulse control disorders manifest by excessive gambling, spending and sexual activities. Other individuals experience psychotic like behavior, paranoid thoughts, agitation, confusion, delusions or hallucinations.