Pronounced: MERE-a-pecks
Generic name: Pramipexole dihydrochloride
Why is Mirapex prescribed?
Although
it is not a cure, Mirapex eases the symptoms of Parkinson's disease--a
progressive disorder marked by muscle rigidity, weakness, shaking,
tremor, and eventually difficulty with walking and talking. Parkinson's
disease results from a shortage of the chemical messenger dopamine in
certain areas of the brain. Mirapex is believed to work by boosting the
action of whatever dopamine is available. The drug can be used with
other Parkinson's medications such as Eldepryl, Sinemet, and Larodopa.
Most important fact about Mirapex
If
you are taking Sinemet or Larodopa, Mirapex may allow a reduction in
your dosage. And if you suffer from the "on-off" effect that often
develops during Parkinson's therapy (symptom-free periods alternating
with severe attacks), Mirapex may extend the good "on" times and
shorten your "off" periods.
How should you take Mirapex?
Take Mirapex exactly as prescribed. If it makes you nauseous, try taking it with food.
When
discontinuing Mirapex therapy, it's best to do it gradually. Your
doctor will tell you how to taper your dose over a week's time.
--If you miss a dose--Take
it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose,
skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not
take 2 doses at the same time.
--Storage instructions--Store at room temperature; protect from light.
Mirapex side effects
Side
effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Mirapex.
--Side effects may include--Abnormal
dreams, arthritis, chest pain, confusion, constipation, decreased
sensitivity to touch, difficulty breathing, difficulty walking,
dizziness, dizziness upon standing, drowsiness, dry mouth,
hallucinations, increased muscle tone, increased urination, insomnia,
involuntary movement (jerky motions), lack of appetite, memory loss,
nasal inflammation, nausea, swelling, urinary tract infections, vision
abnormalities, weakness
Why should Mirapex not be prescribed?
If Mirapex gives you an allergic reaction, you'll be unable to use it.
Special warnings about Mirapex
Mirapex
can cause your blood pressure to drop when you first stand up,
resulting in symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, fainting, blackouts,
and, sometimes, sweating. To avoid or reduce these symptoms, try to
stand up slowly, especially at the beginning of treatment with Mirapex.
Mirapex
can cause drowsiness and may trigger hallucinations, especially if you
are over 65 or have an advanced case of Parkinson's. You may even fall
asleep--without warning and without feeling drowsy--while performing
everyday activities. Check with your doctor immediately if you find
that you're getting drowsy or falling asleep while eating, talking, or
watching television. Do not drive a car or undertake other dangerous
activities until you've spoken with the doctor. Be especially cautious
when taking other drugs that cause sleepiness.
If
you have a kidney condition, make sure the doctor is aware of it.
You'll probably need regular blood tests to check your kidney function,
and your dosage of Mirapex may have to be reduced.
In
very rare cases, Mirapex may cause muscle wasting. If you develop
muscle aches or soreness after you start Mirapex, be sure to tell your
doctor. Also alert your doctor if you notice any changes in your
eyesight.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Mirapex
If
Mirapex is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could
be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to
check with your doctor before combining Mirapex with the following:
- Carbidopa/Levodopa (Sinemet)
- Sedatives and tranquilizers such as chloral hydrate, codeine products, Dalmane, Halcion, and phenobarbital
- Cimetidine (Tagamet)
- Diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor XR)
- Major tranquilizers such as Compazine, Haldol, Mellaril, Navane, Prolixin, Stelazine, and Thorazine
- Metoclopramide (Reglan)
- Quinidine (Quinidex, Quinaglute)
- Quinine
- Ranitidine (Zantac)
- Triamterene (Dyrenium)
- Verapamil (Calan, Isoptin)
Combining
Mirapex with Sinemet or Larodopa sometimes triggers twitching and jerky
movements. If this happens, tell your doctor. A reduction in your dose
of Sinemet or Larodopa may solve the problem.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The
effects of Mirapex during pregnancy have not been adequately studied,
so it's best to avoid it if you're expecting. If you are pregnant or
plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.
It
is not known whether Mirapex appears in breast milk. If the drug is
considered essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop
breastfeeding while taking Mirapex.
Recommended dosage for Mirapex
--Adults--The
usual starting dose is 0.125 milligrams 3 times a day. If necessary,
your doctor may increase the dose every 5 to 7 days until the maximum
dose of 4.5 milligrams a day is reached. Dosage is usually increased
gradually to minimize the drug's potential side effects. If you have
kidney disease, the doctor will keep the dosage quite low.
--Children--The safety and effectiveness of Mirapex in children have not been established.
Overdosage
Although
there is no information on Mirapex overdose, any medication taken in
excess can have dangerous consequences. If you suspect an overdose,
seek medical attention immediately.
Information provided by PDRhealth.com