Mirapex (Pramipexole)

Mirapex Information:

Mirapex (generic name: Pramipexole Dihydrochloride) is a medication prescribed for the treatment of the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Pramipexole is a dopamine antagonist, and it works by acting like the chemical dopamine which occurs naturally in the body. Mirapex is the most commonly dopamine antagonist for Parkinson’s disease. The disease has symptoms such as shaking and loss of control of the body. In sufferers of Parkinson’s disease, the reason that bodily movement is affected is the lack of dopamine, a chemical in the brain which is responsible for transmitting messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Usually after the age of 50 the dopamine levels in the brain are reduced, however it is in only a few people that levels drop so low that the brain cannot control the movements in the body, and this condition is known as Parkinson’s disease. The disease is degenerative and terminal, and affects the entire nervous system. Mirapex has proved effective in the treatment of early symptoms of the disease without the use of levodopa, but during the advanced stages, taking levodopa/carbidopa in addition may provide the additional benefit of reducing the dose of levodopa that is required.

Mirapex Side Effects:

As with any drug, there may be side effects from taking Mirapex including impotence, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, stomach pain, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, swollen hands and feet, changes in weight and appetite, blurred vision, insomnia, increased dreaming, amnesia, and difficulty with concentration. More serious side effects may include severe drowsiness, nausea, sweating, fainting, hallucinations, muscle pain, weak muscles, fever, feeling weak, loss of appetite, shaking, twitching, changes in heartbeat, pain in the chest, rapid weight loss and dry cough. If you experience any side effects you must seek medical attention immediately for safety.

Mirapex Directions:

You should follow the instructions of the doctor who prescribed Mirapex to you. Directions and dosage information can also be found on the pack or leaflet inside the pack. Mirapex comes in tablet form. It can be taken with or without food. You should swallow Mirapex whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, break or chew tablets as many are designed to release the drug at a specific rate. Chewing or breaking the drug may cause it to release too quickly which can have undesirable effects. Mirapex should be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat.

Mirapex Precautions:

If you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Mirapex, you should avoid taking it and inform your doctor. You must consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions including liver or kidney disease, shaking or uncontrolled muscle or limb movements. You must consult your doctor if you are taking any other medications as they may interact with Mirapex, including amantadine, cimetidine, diltiazem, rantidine, quinidine, quinine, triamterene, verapamil, nausea or vomiting medications and psychiatric medications. It is important that you inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding as Mirapex may cause harm to unborn and new born babies. Some people taking Mirapex may fall asleep during the day including working hours, and the drugs can cause extreme drowsiness so you must not drive or operate dangerous machinery while taking Mirapex. You may experience increased sexual urges while taking the drug, or other impulsive urges.