Indications
Mirapex ER is a prescription medicine used to treat the signs and symptoms of Parkinson's disease. It can improve the ability to move and can decrease shakiness (tremor), stiffness, muscle spasms, and poor muscle control associated with Parkinson's disease.
Mirapex ER contains the active ingredient pramipexole, which is a dopamine agonist that works on the brain's dopamine receptors. By mimicking the action of dopamine in the brain, Mirapex ER helps to restore the balance of chemicals in the brain and improve control over muscle movements, which is particularly helpful in treating Parkinson's disease.
Use and Dosage
Pramipexole, an extended-release tablet, is commonly used to treat Parkinson's disease once daily. The tablets should be swallowed whole, not split, chewed, or crushed, and may be taken with or without food. To avoid nausea that may be caused by the medication, taking pramipexole with food is recommended.
Follow the directions on the prescription label carefully and seek clarification from your doctor or pharmacist on any parts you do not understand. Take pramipexole exactly as directed; do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Your doctor may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it; the dose will probably not be increased more frequently than once every 4 to 7 days. It may take several weeks before the medication takes effect at a dose that works for you.
Note that generic medications similar to pramipexole may have varying instructions and cautionary measures and should always be used with the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Mirapex ER (Pramipexole):
- Abnormal dreams
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Difficulty remembering
- Difficulty urinating or pain when urinating
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Frequent urination or urgent need to urinate
- Heartburn
- Loss of balance, falling
- Nausea
- Pain in back, arms, or legs
- Swollen, stiff, or painful joints
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Mirapex ER (Pramipexole):
- Abnormal body movements and motions that you cannot control
- Abnormal thoughts
- Aggressive behavior
- Agitation
- Bending forward at the waist, or tilting sideways when you sit, stand or walk
- Changes in the way you sit or stand that you cannot control
- Changes in vision
- Confusion
- Dark, red, or cola-colored urine
- Hallucinations (seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist)
- Muscle stiffness or aching
- Muscle tenderness
- Muscle weakness
- Such as your neck bending forward
Forms and Strength
Mirapex ER (Pramipexole) is available in the following forms and strength:
Mirapex ER: Extended-Release Tablet
- 0.375mg
- 0.75mg
- 1.5mg
- 3mg
- 3.75mg
- 4.5 mg
Pramipexole: Extended-Release Tablet
- 0.375mg
- 0.75mg
- 1.5mg
- 3mg
Cautions
- Pramipexole may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or hallucinations. Patients should avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until they know how the medication affects them.
- Mirapex ER may interact with other medications and supplements. Patients should inform their doctor about all the medications and supplements they are taking before starting treatment with Mirapex ER. They should not stop or change the dosage of any medication without consulting their doctor first.
- Mirapex ER can cause side effects, such as nausea, fatigue, constipation, or swelling in the legs and feet. Patients should inform their doctor if they experience any unexpected or severe side effects.
- Mirapex ER should be used with caution in patients with kidney problems, as the medication is eliminated from the body through the kidneys. Patients with kidney problems may require a lower dosage of Mirapex ER.
- Pramipexole may cause sudden episodes of falling asleep during daily activities, such as driving or operating machinery. Patients should inform their doctor if they experience daytime sleepiness or sudden episodes of falling asleep.
- Mirapex ER may cause a decrease in blood pressure, especially when standing up from a sitting or lying position. Patients should avoid sudden changes in posture, as this may cause dizziness or fainting.
- Patients with a history of mental health problems, such as depression or bipolar disorder, may be at an increased risk of experiencing mood changes while taking Mirapex ER.
- Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their doctor before taking Mirapex ER, as the medication may affect the developing fetus or nursing infant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Mirapex ER cause mood changes?
Yes, patients with a history of mental health problems, such as depression or bipolar disorder, may be at an increased risk of experiencing mood changes while taking Mirapex ER.
Is Mirapex ER addictive?
No, Mirapex ER is not addictive. It works by replacing the missing dopamine in the brain, but it does not produce a "high" or lead to dependence.
How long does it take for Mirapex ER to start working?
The time it takes for Mirapex ER to start working may vary from person to person. Some patients may notice an improvement in their symptoms within a few days, while for others it may take several weeks.
Do I need to stop taking Mirapex ER before having surgery?
Patients should inform their doctor or surgeon that they are taking Mirapex ER before having surgery. In some cases, the medication may need to be temporarily stopped before the procedure.
Can Mirapex ER be used to treat restless legs syndrome?
Yes, But Mirapex ER extended-release tablets are not used to treat restless legs syndrome.
Resources
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/022421s003lbl.pdf
- https://www.goodrx.com/pramipexole/what-is
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a697029.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/mirapex-er.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-153659/mirapex-er-oral/details
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=e2902ed1-cfeb-4815-adc3-129c577917a1
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