Pramipexole
Mirapex is the brand-name version of pramipexole, a dopamine agonist used for Parkinson’s disease and restless legs syndrome. Four tablet strengths, from 0.125 mg to 1 mg, sit on this shelf.
Key points
- Pramipexole is used alone or alongside other medicines to target the shaking, stiffness, slowed movements and balance problems of Parkinson’s Disease.
- For Restless Legs Syndrome, it eases the leg discomfort and strong urge to move that worsen at night or when sitting still.
- Pramipexole may cause sudden sleep episodes during daily activities, with no prior warning of drowsiness.
How does Pramipexole work?
Pramipexole belongs to a group of medicines called dopamine agonists. These Neurology treatments work by mimicking dopamine, the natural substance in the brain that controls movement. In Parkinson’s disease, dopamine-producing cells decline over time, and pramipexole steps in to reduce shaking, stiffness and slowed movement. For restless legs syndrome, the same action eases the uncomfortable leg sensations and the urge to move, particularly in the evening. Pramipexole controls symptoms in both conditions but does not cure them.