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Home > Drug Category > Parkinson's Disease, Dopamine Agonists > Neupro and Equivalent

Neupro Information

Neupro (Rotigotine) is primarily used to treat the signs and symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is a neurological condition where the brain loses dopamine-producing cells. Dopamine is a chemical that helps control body movement and coordination. Therefore, when dopamine levels drop, like in Parkinson's disease, individuals develop tremors, muscle stiffness, slow movement, loss of coordination, and other related difficulties. It can be prescribed as an early therapy without combining it with dopamine analogues like levodopa. It can also be used as an adjunct treatment to levodopa therapy in more advanced stages of Parkinson's disease.

Rotigotine has also been proven effective in treating restless leg syndrome, which is a neurological condition that causes an uncomfortable urge to move the legs, usually at rest and worse at night. This condition arises due to abnormal dopamine signaling. Rotigotine is a dopamine agonist that mimics the actions of dopamine in the brain. It stimulates dopamine receptors in the brain, thereby restoring the balance needed for better control over movement and coordination.

Neupro is available as a transdermal patch. Continuous delivery from the patch is thought to provide more steady stimulation of these receptors, which may suggest a benefit in managing symptoms, especially those that can fluctuate or occur overnight, such as early morning stiffness or nighttime symptoms of restless leg syndrome.

Neupro Side Effects

Like all medications, Neupro appears to have a range of possible side effects. Some common mild side effects include dizziness, headache, nausea, skin irritation at the patch site, sleepiness, vomiting, and trouble sleeping.

It is also worth noting that Neupro contains a sulfite called sodium metabisulfite, which may cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to sulfites, especially those with asthma. Therefore, stop using this topical medication and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat; • High blood pressure;
• Severe drowsiness, fainting;
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet;
• Unusual behavioral activities such as compulsive or uncontrolled behaviour (e.g., gambling, spending), and hallucinations;
• Worsening of your symptoms

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Neupro Precautions

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to rotigotine, other ingredients in Neupro, or any other medicine. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Asthma;
• Heart disease;
• High blood pressure;
• Skin disease such as melanoma

This dermal patch may need to be removed before undergoing magnetic resonance imaging or a cardioversion procedure to avoid skin burns. You need to exercise extreme caution or altogether avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or any activity requiring complete mental alertness until you know exactly how the medication affects you. People have, in rare instances, suddenly fallen asleep during daily activities like driving or eating, sometimes without prior warning of drowsiness.

Avoid exposing the site where the patch was applied to excessive external heat sources, such as heating pads, saunas, hot tubs, heated waterbeds, or direct sunlight. Heat can increase the amount of medicine absorbed into the body, which could cause an overdose or increased side effects. Never stop using this topical medication suddenly. The dosage must be reduced gradually under your doctor's supervision to avoid a severe withdrawal syndrome like fever, confusion, anxiety, or severe muscle stiffness. Avoid the intake of alcohol while using this topical medication, as it can increase the sedative effects of this medication.

There is no adequate data on the safety of using this medication in pregnant and breastfeeding women. Therefore, consult your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This medication is not recommended for use in children. Some medications, such as metoclopramide, may interact with Neupro, causing adverse effects. Therefore, before using this topical medication, inform your doctor about any other medications you are currently taking, including other topical medications, to determine whether it is safe to use with Neupro.

Apply the Neupro skin patch once daily, as directed by your doctor. The patch is available in different dosage strengths. Place it on healthy skin on the upper arm, shoulder, abdomen, thigh, or hip. Change the patch every 24 hours and put the next one on a different spot to avoid skin irritation. Wash your hands after applying or removing the patch. If it falls off, put on a new one and continue with your regular schedule. Check out the leaflet in the medication pack for more usage instructions. Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Neupro?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Neupro.