What Is Ropinirole?

Ropinirole is an oral medication, called a dopamine agonist, usually used to treat Parkinson's disease. It is available in most countries by doctor’s prescription only and may be known by different trade names in different countries, according to manufacturer. As with any medication ropinirole may cause adverse effects and interact with some other drugs. Patients on ropinirole are regularly monitored by their treating doctor to ensure maximum therapeutic effect and minimal adverse effects.

The mechanism of action by which ropinirole works is by stimulating the dopamine receptors in the brain. Dopamine is a chemical neurotransmitter which carries messages between the nerves and stimulates the dopamine receptors. Patients with Parkinson’s disease have minimal to no dopamine, so the dopamine receptors are left unstimulated. By stimulating the dopamine receptors, ropinirole may reduce the symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease.

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nerve disorder for which there is no cure, although there are treatments which may minimize the symptoms associated with the disease. It may present with a number of symptoms including tremor, stiffness and slowing of movement, impaired balance and changes in speech, which worsen over time. Diagnosis will be made by a doctor and the most suitable medication prescribed.

When using the drug for Parkinson’s disease, the doctor may prescribe it alone, or in combination with other medications. It is usually started at a low dose and increased slowly at weekly intervals while the doctor monitors response and tolerance. In most countries two different formulations are available, an immediate-release one and a slow-release one. When the immediate-release preparation is used, dosing is usually three times a day and the slow-release preparation is usually used once daily. The prescribed dose should never be exceeded.

Ropinirole may cause unwanted side effects. The reported ropinirole side effects include confusion, tiredness, dizziness, low blood pressure especially on standing up — also called postural hypotension — and fainting. There have been reports of impaired mental alertness and sudden falling asleep even far into therapy, so the operation of heavy machinery and driving should be avoided. Should any side effect occur, it should be discussed with the prescribing doctor immediately.

As with any medication, ropinirole may interact with other medications and be contraindicated in people with some underlying medical conditions. All other drugs, including prescribed, homeopathic, complementary and over-the-counter medications, should be discussed with the prescribing doctor to prevent any interactions. Any underlying conditions such as heart conditions or liver dysfunction should also be disclosed to the treating doctor.