Information about Requip (Ropinirole)
Requip is the brand name for Ropinirole, a medication primarily used to treat conditions such as Parkinson's disease and Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). It works by stimulating dopamine receptors in the brain, which helps manage the symptoms associated with these neurological disorders.
Product Highlights
- To treat motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement).
- To alleviate the uncomfortable sensations and urge to move the legs, particularly at night.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- In Parkinson’s disease, Requip helps improve motor functions such as movement, balance, and coordination.
- Alleviates the discomfort and urge to move the legs associated with Restless Legs Syndrome, especially at night.
- Unlike some older dopamine agonists, Requip is a non-ergot derivative, which lowers the risk of side effects like fibrosis.
- By acting on dopamine receptors, Requip helps improve mood, control motor activity, and reduce involuntary movements in Parkinson's disease.
Direction of Use
- Requip (Ropinirole) should be taken orally, with or without food.
- For Parkinson’s disease, the usual starting dose is low, and it is gradually increased based on the patient’s response.
- For Restless Legs Syndrome, the medication is typically taken 1-3 hours before bedtime.
- Dosage adjustments are necessary based on the individual’s response and side effects.
- The tablets should be taken whole and must not be crushed or chewed.
Safety Concerns
- Requip may cause drowsiness, and in some instances, patients could experience sudden sleep attacks without prior warning.
- Some individuals may experience a drop in blood pressure upon standing, which can result in dizziness or fainting.
- Especially in elderly patients, Requip may cause psychiatric side effects, including hallucinations or confusion.
- There is a risk of developing compulsive behaviors like gambling, shopping, or hypersexuality.
- These can occur, particularly when the dosage is increased.
Avoid Requip (Ropinirole) If
- You are allergic to ropinirole or any other components of Requip.
- You have severe liver impairment, since Requip is metabolized in the liver.
- You have a history of serious psychiatric disorders (such as psychosis) or if you have a tendency to develop impulsive behaviors (e.g., compulsive gambling or eating).
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless your healthcare provider recommends it.
- You have severe heart problems or a history of orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure upon standing).
