Indications
Requip is a prescription medication that primarily used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, such as stiffness, tremors, muscle spasms, and poor muscle control. The active ingredient of Requip is ropinirole. Ropinirole belongs to a class of drugs called dopamine agonists. It works by affecting the levels of dopamine, a chemical messenger in the brain that plays a role in movement, sleep, mood and thinking.
Requip is usually taken three times per day and comes in both standard and extended-release tablet formulations. It can also be used to treat restless legs syndrome, a neurologic disorder that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs. It can also be prescribed to treat other medical conditions, such as depression and anxiety.
Uses and Dosage
For Parkinson's disease, Requip should be taken orally with or without food as directed by your doctor, typically three times per day. Taking Ropinirole with food may help to minimize nausea. Your healthcare provider may direct you to start Requip at a low dose and slowly increase it to reduce the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and low blood pressure. Follow the dosing instructions carefully and notify your doctor of any concerning symptoms or adverse effects.
To treat Parkinson's disease with Ropinirole, the recommended starting dose is 0.25 mg to be taken orally three times per day. Based on the individual patient's response and tolerance to the medication, the dose can be adjusted with weekly increments, as necessary. After week 4, if needed, the daily dose may be increased by 1.5 mg per day on a weekly basis up to a maximum dose of 9 mg per day. Once this maximum limit has been achieved, the dose can be increased by up to 3 mg per day every week to a recommended maximum total daily dose of 24 mg. Doses greater than 24 mg per day have not been tested in clinical trials.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Requip (Ropinirole):
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Upset stomach
- Increased sweating
- Swelling in your legs or feet
- Sudden muscle movements
Serious Side Effects of Requip (Ropinirole):
- Allergic reactions (skin rash, itching or hives; swelling of the face, lips, or tongue)
- Changes in emotions or moods
- Changes in vision
- Depressed mood
- Increased blood pressure
- Falling asleep during normal activities like driving
- Fast and irregular heartbeat
- Hallucinations
- Low blood pressure (dizziness; feeling faint or lightheaded, falls; unusually weak or tired)
- New or increased gambling urges, sexual urges, uncontrolled spending, binge or compulsive eating, or other urges
- Uncontrollable head, mouth, neck, arm, or leg movements
Form and Strength
Requip (Ropinirole) is available in the following forms and strength:
Requip: Tablet
- 1 mg
- 2 mg
Ropinirole: Tablet
- 0.25 mg
- 0.5 mg
- 1 mg
- 2 mg
Caution
- Requip may interact with levodopa, ciprofloxacin, fluvoxamine, metoclopramide, omeprazole, medication used to treat nausea and vomiting or mental illness, or estrogen. Tell your doctor all the medications you use.
- Alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of Ropinirole such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Some people may also experience impairment in thinking and judgment. You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with this medication.
- Ropinirole can cause a severe allergic reaction, which may cause symptoms such as: trouble breathing. Trouble swallowing. Swelling of your tongue, lips, face, or throat.
- The safety of Requip during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established, so women who are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding should speak to their healthcare provider before taking Requip.
- Caution is advised when taking Ropinirole with certain medications, such as antidepressants and antipsychotics, as they may interact and increase the risk of side effects.
- Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the effects of Ropinirole and may require lower doses.
- Ropinirole may cause impulse control disorders, such as gambling addiction, in some individuals.
- Ropinirole may cause withdrawal syndrome in some individuals, which can include symptoms such as depression and anxiety.
- Ropinirole should be used with caution in patients with liver problems, as they may be more susceptible to side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are there any medications that should not be taken with Requip?
There are some medications, including certain antidepressants and antipsychotics that may interact with Requip and increase the risk of side effects. Discuss all medications you are taking with your healthcare provider before taking Requip.
How should I take Requip?
Requip is typically taken orally, with or without food. The dosage and frequency of administration will depend on the condition being treated and other factors.
How long does it take for Requip to start working?
The amount of time it takes for Requip to start working can vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated, but some people may notice an improvement in their symptoms within a few days or weeks of starting the medication.
Can Requip be used in elderly patients?
Requip can be used in elderly patients, but they may be more sensitive to its effects and may need lower doses. Discuss the risks and benefits of using Requip with a healthcare provider.
Can Requip be used long-term?
Yes, Requip can be used long-term, but regularly monitor for side effects and adjust the dose as needed. Some people may need to take Requip for many years to manage their symptoms.
Resources
- https://www.drugs.com/requip.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-4638/requip-oral/details
- https://www.rxlist.com/requip-drug.htm
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20503-ropinirole-oral-tablets
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020658s018s020s021lbl.pdf
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=2deb758c-659e-4e5a-a087-0e9c422f2fe1
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