What is Neupro (Rotigotine) prescribed for?

Parkinson’s disease affects the nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine. And dopamine is a neurotransmitter that acts like a messenger that tells another area of your brain when you want to move a part of your body. When the cells that make dopamine start to die, your dopamine levels drop, And when it gets to low you can no longer control your movements as well as you used to, and you begin to experience symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Many symptoms of this disease include muscle rigidity, tremors, and changes in speech and gait.

In taking this medication, it can help improve your ability to move and decrease shakiness, stiffness, slowed movement and unsteadiness. Overall this medication works by helping to restore the balance of the natural substance dopamine, within the brain.

Do not open the sealed pouch until you are ready to use it. Once ready open and remove the patch. Peel of the backing from the patch and apply it to a clean, dry and hairless area of the skin on the front of the abdomen, thigh, hip, side of the lower back, should, or upper arm. Once applied, press the patch firming in place for about 30 seconds. Do not use any oils, creams, ointments or any powders when applying the patch. Once complete, wash your hands with soap and water. Do not touch your eyes or other objects until your hands are washed.

The patch is usually only worn for 1 day, then replaced.  Make sure to apply the patch in a different location each time you use one.  Wait at least 14 days before applying a patch in the same spot.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment. To reduce any risk of side effects, your doctor may directed you to start at a low dose and then gradually increase it as time goes on.

When changing your patch, carefully remove the old patch, fold it in half with the sticky side together, and throw it away in the trash away from children and pets. Do not touch the sticky side with your fingers. Wash the application area with soap and water. Use baby oil or mineral oil to remove any leftover stickiness. Do not use solvents such as alcohol or nail polish remover. Always wash your hands after handling the patch, being careful not to touch your eyes or other objects until after you have washed your hands.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Rotigotine; or to any other medications or allergies in general.

Before taking this medication, it is for the best to inform your doctor of your Medical history. Report any of these conditions, if you have any of the follow; asthma, sleep disorders (such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy), low/high blood pressure, heart disease (such as heart failure), kidney disease, mental/mood disorders (such as schizophrenia).

While wearing your patch, avoid exposing it to direct heat (such as heating pads, electric blankets, heat lamps, saunas, hot tubs, heated waterbeds, or prolonged direct sunlight). Heat may cause more drug to be released into your body, increasing the risk of side effects.

Some of these side effects may occur when taking this medication; they are as follows; Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, tiredness, trouble sleeping, increased sweating, headache, or redness/itching/swelling at the application site may occur. However, if these symptoms do persist or worsen, it is best then to speak with your doctor.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: mental/mood changes (such as confusion, agitation, depression, hallucinations), severe dizziness, fainting, unusual strong urges (such as increased gambling, increased sexual urges), swelling ankles/feet, unusual weight gain, fast heartbeat, new or worsening uncontrolled movements.

Some people using rotigotine have fallen asleep suddenly during their usual daily activities (such as talking on the phone, driving). In some cases, sleep occurred without any feelings of drowsiness beforehand. This sleep effect may occur anytime during treatment with rotigotine even if you have used this medication for a long time. If you experience increased sleepiness or fall asleep during the day, do not drive or take part in other possibly dangerous activities until you have discussed this effect with your doctor. Your risk of this sleep effect is increased by using alcohol or other medications that can make you drowsy. See also Precautions section.

This medication may increase or decrease your blood pressure. You may develop a sudden drop in blood pressure that can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, sweating, and fainting. This is more likely when you first start the medication, when your dose is increased, or when you get up suddenly. To reduce your risk, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position. Talk to your doctor if you need to check your blood pressure while using this medication.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

 What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

 What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

 What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.