Mirapex Uses (Cont.)

Mirapex Uses for Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that results from the loss of neurons in a region of the brain that controls movement. This creates a shortage of the brain-signaling chemical (neurotransmitter) known as dopamine, causing movement problems that are characteristic of Parkinson's disease. The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is not currently known.
 
Although early symptoms of Parkinson's disease may be subtle, people will eventually develop a characteristic tremor (trembling or shaking) of a limb, especially when the body is at rest. As the disease progresses, symptoms may worsen and new ones may appear.
 
Depending on the severity of a person's symptoms, Parkinson's disease treatment can include:
 
Mirapex is approved to treat both early and advanced Parkinson's disease, and can be used alone or in combination with other Parkinson's medications.
 

How Does Mirapex Work?

Mirapex is classified as a dopamine agonist. This means that it works much like dopamine, a naturally occurring brain chemical. Mirapex binds to dopamine receptors and stimulates them, much like natural dopamine.
 
A dopamine deficiency, caused by a loss of dopamine-producing cells in certain parts of the brain, is likely responsible for many of the symptoms of Parkinson's. Using a medication that acts like dopamine, such as Mirapex, may help to relieve some of the symptoms.
 
It is not known exactly how or why Mirapex works for restless legs syndrome (RLS).
 
(Mirapex Uses Continued: Page 3)

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;