Drugs & Vitamins

Active Ingredients: Ropinirole
Other Names: Requip Tablets
Drug Class: Dopamine Receptor Agonists
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are Ropinirole? (Back to top)
ROPINIROLE is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. It helps to improve muscle control and movement difficulties. It is also used for the treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• dizzy or fainting spells
• heart disease
• high blood pressure
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• low blood pressure
• sleeping problems
• an unusual or allergic reaction to ropinirole, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)

• ciprofloxacin
• female hormones, like estrogens and birth control pills
• medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
• metoclopramide
• mexiletine
• norfloxacin
• omeprazole

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• changes in vision
• chest pain
• confusion
• fast, irregular heartbeat
• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls
• hallucination, loss of contact with reality
• increase or decrease in blood pressure
• joint or muscle pain
• loss of bladder control
• numbness, tingling, or prickly sensations
• shortness of breath, troubled breathing, tightness in chest, or wheezing
• suicidal thoughts or other mood changes
• uncontrollable head, mouth, neck, arm, or leg movements
• vomiting

• clumsiness, feeling unsteady, or dizziness, especially early in treatment
• flushing
• headache
• increased sweating
• nausea
• tremor
• yawning

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. It may be several weeks or months before you feel the full effect of this medicine.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can increase possible dizziness. Avoid alcoholic drinks. If you find that you have sudden feelings of wanting to sleep during normal activities, like cooking, watching television, or while driving or riding in a car, you should contact your health care professional.

Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.

Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Last Updated:July 09, 2008

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