Uses
Mirapex, generic name Pramipexole, can be used alone or in conjunction with other types of medicines to help ease Parkinson's disease symptoms. Parkinson's is a nervous system disorder that causes trouble with muscle control, balance and movement. Some of the common symptoms are shaking of the hands, head or legs, slowed movements and stiffness. Mirapex is also prescribed to treat symptoms of RLS. Pramipexole belongs to the class of medicines known as dopamine agonists. It works to replace the effects of dopamine when the natural supply is diminished.
How it works
Mirapex belongs to the class of drugs known as dopamine agonists. This simply means that it works much in the way that dopamine does in the brain. This medicine binds to the dopamine receptors in the brain and causes them to become stimulated, much in the way that naturally occurring dopamine does.
A loss of the cells that produce dopamine can cause a condition known as Dopamine deficiency. It is thought that greatly reduced levels of dopamine in the brain may be the cause of many Parkinson's disease symptoms. By taking a medicine that acts similarly to dopamine, like Mirapex does, there is the potential to ease some of the Parkinson's disease symptoms.
It is not clear at this time why or how this medicine is effective at treating RLS.
Mirapex benefits
Studies have found that Mirapex is beneficial in helping to treat both advanced and early Parkinson's disease symptoms. Mirapex was studied in those that have early stages of Parkinson's that were not taking levodopa yet, as well in those that have advanced stages of Parkinson's disease and had been being treated with levodopa for quite a while. In both situations, Mirpex was helpful in improving the Parkinson's symptoms.
Studies also found that Mirapex can be beneficial for treating RLS symptoms. One study found that 72% of those who took this medication reported their symptoms of RLS being "much improved," and "very much improved," when compared to 51.2% of those that took a placebo.
Possible Secondary Effects
Taking any kind of medication has the potential for secondary effects. The same is true when taking Mirapex. Not all people that take this medication will have secondary effects. In fact, most people do well with it. If you do notice secondary effects, they are most often mild and will likely not need to be treated.
The most commonly reported secondary effects can include:
- Hypotension, also known as low blood pressure
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Sleepiness
- Hallucinations
Potential Drug Interactions
Mirapex has the potential to interact with many other medications.
Generic forms
There are generic types of Mirapex available at this time.