Mirapex is prescribed to people with primary restless legs syndrome (which means the restless legs symptoms were not caused by an underlying illness or deficiency), and signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
No one is sure what causes restless legs syndrome, but it is believed to be hereditary. Primary restless legs syndrome is incurable, but secondary restless legs syndrome, which is caused by pregnancy, anemia or iron deficiency, goes away once the underlying causes have been treated.
Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that is characterized by a lack of dopamine in the brain, which is the chemical that creates coordinated muscle activity. Once 80 percent of the necessary dopamine is depleted, signs of Parkinson’s begin to become noticeable. These signs include tremors, slowness of movement, stiffness, balance difficulty, cramped handwriting, stiff facial expression, muffled speech, and depression.
What are some important things I should know about Mirapex?
Mirapex can cause you to fall asleep while you are going about your daily activities. Some people have fallen asleep while driving and were injured (and injured others) in automobile accidents.
Mirapex is for people who have primary restless legs syndrome or Parkinson’s disease.
- children
- people allergic to Mirapex’s ingredients
- people with underlying sleep issues
- are pregnant or breastfeeding
Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you take other medications so you can avoid harmful drug interactions. Also, tell your doctor if you have low blood pressure, kidney problems, or have trouble controlling your muscles.
Mirapex can cause you to fall asleep while you are going about your daily activities. Mirapex is more likely to cause you to fall asleep suddenly if it is combined with alcohol. Mirapex can also cause:
- low blood pressure
- hallucinations
- nausea
- confusion
- abnormal movements
- increased risk of developing melanoma (skin cancer)
You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- dizziness
- fainting
- hallucinations
- skin growths or abnormalities
- pregnancy
- sleepiness