Parkinson's is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease worldwide, and is characterized by motor symptoms, including tremors, muscle rigidity, and slowness of movement. Although these symptoms can significantly impact a Parkinson’s patient’s quality of life, luckily, there are effective medications to improve them, such as Requip.

By reading this article, you will learn what Requip is, what it’s used for and how it helps manage restless leg syndrome (RLS) and Parkinson’s symptoms for improved mobility and comfort. You will also learn how to take this medication and the safety considerations to keep in mind.

What is Requip?

Requip is an FDA and Health Canada-approved prescription drug that is used for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease symptoms, such as stiffness, tremors, muscle spasms, and poor muscle control. It can also be beneficial for patients experiencing restless leg syndrome (RLS). Requip is the brand name for the drug and active ingredient, ropinirole, which is classified as a dopamine antagonist.

This medication is available in two tablet forms: immediate-release and extended-release. The extended-release form is specifically approved for the treatment of Parkinson’s, not RLS. While it’s excellent for steady symptom control, the immediate-release option is more suitable for addressing sudden flare-ups of symptoms and providing fast relief.

How Does Requip Work in the Body?

In healthy individuals, dopamine plays a crucial role in controlling movement and coordination. Since Parkinson’s patients have low levels of dopamine, taking Ropinirole stimulates dopamine receptors. This mimics the effects of dopamine itself and relieves symptoms. In patients with restless leg syndrome, Requip calms overactive nerves and the resulting overwhelming urge to move the legs. While Requip doesn’t improve symptoms overnight, it works gradually and can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life over time.

How to Take Requip?

Your doctor will usually prescribe you a low dose to start and then increase it slowly to keep side effects to a minimum. The exact dosage schedule depends on whether you have been prescribed the immediate-release or extended-release version.

Immediate-Release: Usually taken three times a day for Parkinson’s or once daily, close to bedtime for restless leg syndrome.

Extended Release: Taken once daily for Parkinson’s and not approved for RLS.

While Requip can be taken on an empty stomach, combining it with food may help manage common symptoms of nausea. This medication should be stored in a dry place at room temperature. Taking this drug only as prescribed by your doctor without changing the dosage on your own or stopping this medication suddenly is crucial.

Like with any drug, you must also work closely with your doctor and inform them of your complete medical history to avoid serious drug interactions or health concerns. For example, Requip may interact with opioid pain or cough relievers, cetirizine, and other drugs. Having a history of heart problems, mental or mood disorders, walking difficulties, kidney or liver problems, high/low blood pressure, or sleep disorders like sleep apnea may also cause additional problems for your health. Potential adverse side reactions may include nausea, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, unusual sweating, headache, or dry mouth. These side effects are more common in older adults.

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