Ropinirole is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Find out how to take it safely and the possible side effects. Ropinirole is also called Ropin.
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What is ropinirole?
Ropinirole is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, or Parkinson-like symptoms such as tremor, shakiness, stiffness and difficulty moving. Ropinirole works by helping to restore the balance of dopamine in your brain. Dopamine is a chemical in the brain that helps to control movement.
Ropinirole is also used to treat restless legs syndrome. It helps to reduce the urge to move your legs and the unpleasant feelings you get with restless legs syndrome.
Dose
In Aotearoa New Zealand ropinirole is available as tablets in different strengths: 250 microgram, 1 mg, 2 mg and 5 mg.
- The dose of ropinirole is different for different people.
- You will be started on a low dose and, depending on your response, your doctor will increase your dose to control your symptoms.
- For Parkinson's disease: ropinirole is usually taken 3 times a day.
- For restless legs syndrome: ropinirole is taken once a day, about 2–3 hours before bed. When you start ropinirole for restless legs syndrome, your symptoms might get worse at first. If this happens tell your doctor, as changing the dose can help.
- Always take your ropinirole exactly as your doctor has told you. The pharmacy label on your medicine will tell you how much ropinirole to take, how often to take it, and any special instructions.
How to take ropinirole
- Timing: Take your ropinirole at the same times each day. You can take ropinirole with food, or just after a meal. Try taking ropinirole with food if it causes nausea (feeling sick).
- Missed dose: If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember. But, if it is nearly time for your next dose, just take the next dose at the right time. Do not take two doses at the same time.
- Keep taking ropinirole regularly. Do not stop taking ropinirole without talking to your doctor. Stopping ropinirole suddenly may cause fever, fast heartbeat, muscle stiffness, sweating, confusion and other symptoms.
- Interactions: Ropinirole can interact with some medications, herbal supplements and rongoā Māori, so check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting ropinirole and before starting any new products.
What are the side effects of ropinirole?
Like all medicines, ropinirole can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Often side effects improve as your body gets used to the new medicine.
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| Did you know that you can report a side effect to a medicine to CARM (Centre for Adverse Reactions Monitoring)? Report a side effect to a product | |
Learn more
The following links provide further information on ropinirole. Be aware that websites from other countries may contain information that differs from Aotearoa New Zealand recommendations.
Ropinirole Patient Information New Zealand Formulary
Ropin Medsafe Consumer Information Sheet
Impulse behaviour, Parkinson's UK
References
Ropinirole NZ Formulary
Ropin Medsafe, NZ
The management of Parkinson’s disease – which treatments to start and when? BPAC, NZ, 2014
The night time hustle – managing restless legs syndrome in adults BPAC, NZ, 2012