How does REQUIP help treat Parkinson’s disease?

REQUIP is a prescription medicine that helps reduce the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease by improving control of various body movements that have become slowed or irregular. REQUIP mimics the effect of dopamine in the brain, allowing brain cells to keep sending messages to one another and helping patients manage their symptoms.

REQUIP also helps reduce the amount of time during the day when treatment often "wears off" or is not as effective. REQUIP helps people with Parkinson’s disease maintain their ability to do many daily activities, such as walking, writing, talking, and dressing.

Can REQUIP be taken with other medications?

A doctor may prescribe REQUIP alone or may add REQUIP to medicine already being taken for Parkinson’s disease. If you are already taking levodopa (L-dopa), your doctor may add REQUIP instead of increasing your dose of levodopa. REQUIP, added to levodopa, can help decrease the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and help improve your ability to perform daily activities. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, or alcohol.

What dosage of REQUIP is required for effective symptom control?

REQUIP should be taken 3 times a day for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Your doctor will start you on a small amount of REQUIP and gradually increase the dose, usually each week, until you are taking a dose that effectively controls your symptoms. Different people need different amounts of REQUIP to achieve effective symptom control.

Be sure to take your REQUIP exactly as instructed by your doctor. If you experience any problems, talk to your doctor.