Products
Ropinirole is commercially available in the form of film-coated tablets (Adartrel, Requip, generic). It has been approved in many countries since 1996.
Structure and properties
Ropinirole (C16H24N2O, Mr = 260.4 g/mol) is a non-ergoline dopamine agonist and a dihydroindolone derivative. It is present in drugs as ropinirole hydrochloride, a white to yellow powder that is soluble in water.
Effects
Ropinirole (ATC N04BC04) has dopaminergic properties. The effects are due to agonism at dopamine receptors in the central nervous system (primarily D2, D3). Ropinirole has a half-life of approximately 6 hours.
Indications
- For the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.
- For the treatment of restless legs syndrome.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The tablets can be taken independently of meals. Therapy is started gradually.
- RLS: taken before bedtime.
- Parkinson’s disease: take three times daily, sustained-release tablets: take once daily.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Severe renal insufficiency without regular dialysis.
- Hepatic insufficiency
- Pregnancy and lactation
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Ropinirole is a substrate of CYP1A2 and corresponding drug interactions with CYP inhibitors and inducers are possible. Other interactions have been described with dopamine antagonists and hormones (estrogens).
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, headache, syncope, and movement disorders. Dopamine agonists are known to cause behavioral changes (eg, gambling addiction, hypersexuality, compulsive buying, binge eating) and psychotic disorders (eg, delusions, paranoia).
