Apo-Ropinirole

Apo-Ropinirole (Ropinirole Hydrochloride) is indicated for Parkinson`s disease and restless leg syndrome. This medicine works by acting on the dopamine D-2 receptors in the brain so as to bring about a restoration of dopamine activity. An improvement in motor function is possible as a result of this. The primary active component in these tablets is classified as a non-ergoline dopamine agonist. Use of this medicine may be recommended as an early therapy, and it can also slow down the requirement for treatment with L-dopa.

When used as an adjunctive treatment for Parkinson`s, it can increase the efficacy and prolong the effectiveness of L-dopa. Parkinson`s disease affects the central nervous syndrome, or more specifically, the cells responsible for dopamine production. Its symptoms include tremors, spasms, rigid muscles, speech problems and difficulty moving. There is a co-relation between these symptoms and low levels of dopamine in the nigral striatal system.

By stimulating receptor sites within the central nervous system, it imitates the action of dopamine in the brain. This in turn helps to reduce many of the symptoms caused by Parkinson`s, especially the motor symptoms. It has been theorized by leading experts that this medicine`s mechanism of action in the treatment of RLS (restless leg syndrome) may be due to its effects on the dopaminergic system.

Apo-Ropinirole (Ropinirole Hydrochloride) is provided in tablet form, and there is a 2mg strength version available, as well as a lower strength (0.25mg per tablet) variety. The dosage will be carefully calculated by the physician in charge of treatment, and it is common for patients to be started out on a low dosage, which may be gradually adjusted over a 4 week period. In some cases, adults may be instructed to start out with 0.25mg 3 times per day for the first week of treatment.

The physician may adjust this to 0.5mg (3 times daily) for week 2, followed by 0.75mg (3 times per day) for week 3 and finally, 1mg (3 times per day) for week 4. After this period, the physician may further adjust the daily dosage so that the therapeutic benefits can be maintained. Patients who are also being treated with L-dopa may be told by their physician to reduce their L-dopa dosage. In all cases, deciding the correct dosage will be the responsibility of the physician in charge of treatment. Patients must fully comply with all instructions provided to them.

Treatment with Apo-Ropinirole (Ropinirole Hydrochloride) could result in side effects, and some examples are provided here:

• Drowsiness
• Sore back or joints
• Abnormal sweating
• Reduction in body weight
• Poor appetite, dyspepsia or nausea

Notify your physician of all side effects that you notice while taking this medication. Some of the side effects which occur may be serious. You will require hospitalization or immediate medical care if you are affected by visual changes (hallucinations or double vision), tremors, fainting or any severe reactions which have not been referenced in this paragraph.

A period of several weeks or more may be required before Ropinirole (Ropinirole Hydrochloride) begins to fully take effect. Also, sudden cessation of treatment or alterations of your dosage schedule could trigger withdrawal symptoms. Your physician may provide you with special instructions in order to avoid this.

Certain patients have experienced unusual sexual urges or else compulsions to gamble while they were taking this medication. Consult your physician if you notice any abnormal urges or desires during the course of treatment.

This medication has caused some patients to suddenly fall asleep while carrying out their normal daily activities, even while they were fully awake and alert. If you become drowsy during the day or experience sleepiness, be sure to notify your physician.