Mirapex (Pramipexole)

Mirapex (Pramipexole) Medication Information

Uses

Mirapex is a medication that is used to treat idiopathic Parkinson’s disease and restless leg syndrome. 

Dosage

The tablets are available in several strengths:

• 0.125 mg
• 0.25 mg
• 0.5 mg
• 1 mg
• 1.5 mg

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Mirapex include:

• Hallucinations
• Somnolence
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea 
• Confusion 

Speak with your doctor for a full list of side effects that apply to you if you are taking Pramipexole.

Precautions

Mirapex can cause an elevation in creatine kinase, which can lead to damage in the kidneys called rhabdomyolysis. 

Because Pramipexole is eliminated by the kidneys, care should be taken dosing Mirapex in those patients who have impaired kidney function. 

Mirapex can increase the risk of dopamine side effects, specifically dyskinesia, by decreasing the dose of levodopa, it may reduce the risk of this effect. 

Interactions

The most common drug interactions with Mirapex include:

• Carbidopa/levodopa
• Selegiline
• Amantadine
• Cimetidine
• Probenecid 

Speak with your doctor for more information and before starting a new medication with Pramipexole. 

Storage

Store at room temperature (77ºF). 

Pharmacist Tips

• Only take Pramipexole as it has been prescribed by your doctor.
• Mirapex can be sedating, so exercise caution when you start this medication to see how it affects you. 
• Hallucinations can occur with Pramipexole.

Pramipexole FAQs

Does Mirapex work right away?

It can take 2-6 weeks to see the benefit of Mirapex. 

What are the long term side effects of Mirapex?

Some possible long term side effects of Pramipexole are confusion, difficulty swallowing, memory loss, muscle or joint pain, and frequent urination. 

Is Mirapex a muscle relaxer?

No, Mirapex is not a muscle relaxer, it works to stimulate dopamine receptors. 

What time should I take Mirapex?

When using Mirapex for Parkinson’s disease, it is taken three times a day, and the doses should be equally spaced out throughout the day. For restless leg syndrome, the dose should be take 2-3 hours before bedtime. 

Does Mirapex cause weight gain?

One of the side effects of Pramipexole is compulsive behavior, which can translate to overeating, which could lead to weight gain. 

Related Drugs

• Neupro
• Mirapex ER
• Requip
• Azilect

Reference:

Mirapex {package insert}. Ridgefield, CT: Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; 2007.

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020667s014s017s018lbl.pdf