Neupro is available in several patch strengths, ranging from 1 mg to 8 mg of rotigotine. The strength prescribed will depend on the condition being treated, the severity of your symptoms, and how well you respond to the medication.
Your healthcare provider may start you on a lower dose and gradually increase it until your symptoms are adequately controlled. This gradual adjustment can help reduce the risk of side effects.
Each Neupro patch is designed to be worn for 24 hours. After 24 hours, remove the old patch and apply a new one.
For the most consistent effect, change the patch at approximately the same time every day.
Take Neupro Regularly
Neupro works best when it is used consistently.
Try not to skip doses or change your patch schedule without medical advice. Continuous use helps maintain a steady amount of rotigotine in your body throughout the day and night.
If you forget to replace your patch or if it comes off, follow the instructions provided with your medication or contact your pharmacist or healthcare provider for guidance.
Do Not Stop Neupro Suddenly
Do not suddenly stop using Neupro unless your healthcare provider tells you to do so.
Stopping a dopamine agonist abruptly may cause your symptoms to worsen and can sometimes lead to withdrawal-related symptoms.
Your healthcare provider may need to gradually reduce your dose before stopping treatment completely.
Choosing an Application Site
Apply the Neupro patch to an area of skin that is clean, dry, healthy, and relatively hairless.
Suitable areas may include the:
- Stomach
- Thigh
- Hip
- Flank
- Shoulder
- Upper arm
Avoid applying the patch to skin that is:
- Red
- Irritated
- Broken
- Injured
- Scarred
- Oily
- Recently treated with creams, lotions, or powders
If there is hair at the application site, clip it rather than shaving it immediately before applying the patch. Shaving may irritate the skin.
How to Apply the Neupro Patch
Follow these general steps when applying your Neupro patch:
- Wash and dry your hands before handling the patch.
- Choose an appropriate area of clean, dry skin.
- Open the pouch carefully and remove the patch.
- Remove the protective liner without touching the sticky surface more than necessary.
- Apply the sticky side of the patch directly to your skin.
- Press the patch firmly with the palm of your hand for about 30 seconds.
- Pay particular attention to the edges to make sure the entire patch is securely attached.
- Wash your hands again after applying the patch.
Rotate the Application Site
Use a different area of skin each day to reduce the risk of irritation.
Do not repeatedly apply the patch to the exact same spot. Allow the skin time to recover before using the same area again.
If mild redness develops after removing the patch, it may improve on its own. Contact your healthcare provider if the irritation becomes severe, painful, swollen, or does not go away.
While Wearing the Patch
Keep the patch in place for the full 24-hour period unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise.
You can usually continue normal daily activities while wearing the patch, but check regularly to make sure it is still securely attached.
Avoid placing heating pads, electric blankets, heat lamps, hot water bottles, or other direct heat sources over the patch. Excessive heat may increase the amount of rotigotine absorbed through the skin.
Bathing and Showering
The Neupro patch is designed to remain attached during normal activities such as bathing or showering.
After bathing, check that the edges are still firmly attached. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing directly over the patch.
If the Patch Comes Off
If your Neupro patch falls off before the 24-hour period is complete, apply a new patch to a different area of skin.
Continue with your usual patch-changing schedule unless your healthcare provider gives you different instructions.
Do not try to reattach a patch that has completely fallen off.
Removing the Patch
After 24 hours, carefully peel the old patch away from your skin.
If adhesive remains on your skin, gently clean the area according to the instructions provided with the medication. Avoid harsh rubbing or products that may irritate the skin.
How to Dispose of a Used Patch
A used Neupro patch may still contain some medication.
After removing it, fold the patch in half with the sticky sides pressed together. Dispose of it safely according to the medication instructions and keep used patches away from children and pets.
Do not leave used patches where another person or animal could accidentally come into contact with them.
Important Safety Tips
Always use Neupro exactly as prescribed.
Do not:
- Apply more patches than prescribed
- Cut the patch into smaller pieces
- Apply the patch to damaged or irritated skin
- Place a new patch directly over the same site every day
- Suddenly stop treatment without medical advice
If you are unsure about your dose, patch placement, or what to do if a patch is missed or falls off, ask your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.
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