Neupro (rotigotine) is prescribed to treat Parkinson’s Disease (PD) and moderate-to-severe Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). It is a dopamine agonist that works on the nervous system. Dopamine agonists mimic how dopamine works in the brain, so it reacts as if it is receiving dopamine. This means Neupro can reduce the symptoms but is not a cure.
Neupro is especially useful for treating early PD and for patients with PD and motor fluctuations. It can also be combined with L-DOPA in the treatment of late-stage PD.
Dosage
Rotigotine is applied as a patch (rotigotine transdermal system) daily and worn for 24 hours. It should be applied to clean, dry, and healthy skin on the stomach, thigh, shoulder or upper arm, or on the side of the body between the ribs and the pelvis. It must be applied in different places each day, switching between the right and left sides and the upper and lower body. Neupro should not be applied to the same skin area more than once every 14 days.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
Neupro exhibits a similar safety profile to other DA meds, with nausea, sleepiness (somnolence), dizziness and impairment of voluntary movement (dyskinesia). There can also be skin reactions at the site of the patch.
The exact cause of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is still not fully understood. However, researchers have explored theories, such as neural damage, exposure to environmental toxins, genetic predisposition and the effects of aging as potential factors contributing to the development of the condition.
In the neurological system, dopamine plays a role in maintaining a delicate balance among neurotransmitters to facilitate nerve and muscle cells’ coordination for movement. When there is a deficiency in the supply of dopamine, this balance is disrupted, leading to symptoms like tremors (shaking in the hands, arms, legs and jaw), muscle stiffness (rigidity), slowed movements and difficulties, with balance and coordination – all signs associated with PD.
