About ropinirole hydrochloride
Dopamine agonist
Used for
- Parkinson’s disease
- Restless legs syndrome
Usual adult dose
Parkinson’s: once daily, starting at 2 mg and adjusted gradually. Restless legs: immediate-release tablets are usually taken once daily before bedtime.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Dizziness or fainting
- Sleepiness, sometimes sudden
- Uncontrolled movements or hallucinations
Important warnings
- May cause sudden sleep episodes; avoid driving if affected.
- Can cause low blood pressure, especially when standing.
- Do not stop suddenly; dose reduction should be gradual.
- Extended-release tablets must be swallowed whole.
Pregnancy
Safety is not well established; use during pregnancy requires clinical assessment.
Breastfeeding
May reduce milk production; use during breastfeeding requires clinical assessment.
Interactions
- Ciprofloxacin and fluvoxamine may increase ropinirole levels.
- Smoking can reduce ropinirole levels; stopping smoking may raise them.
- Dopamine-blocking medicines, including many antipsychotics, may reduce its effect.
- Alcohol and sedating medicines may worsen sleepiness.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.