Mirapex (Pramipexole)
Medication information written by Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Updated - February 12, 2021
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
Reference:
Mirapex {package insert}. Ridgefield, CT: Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; 2007.
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020667s014s017s018lbl.pdf
Author: Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Dr. Roybal is a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist who has practiced in both ambulatory and acute care settings. Her pharmacy interests include oncology and general inpatient pharmacy.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.