Requip

Precautions to keep in mind

It is important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits. This is necessary to allow dose adjustments and to reduce any unwanted effects.

Do not stop taking this medicine without first checking with your doctor. Your doctor may want you to reduce gradually the amount you are taking before stopping completely.

This medicine may cause some people to become drowsy, dizzy or lightheaded, to be less alert than they are normally, or to have vision problems, weakness, or problems with coordination. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert, well-coordinated, or able to think or see well. People taking this medicine have reported falling asleep without warning during activities of daily living, including driving which sometimes resulted in accidents. This may happen as late as one year after taking the medicine.

Alcohol or medicines that make you drowsy may add to the effects of this medicine. Be sure your doctor knows if you are taking alcohol or other medicines that may cause drowsiness.

Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting may occur, especially when you get up from a lying or sitting position. These symptoms are more likely to occur when you begin taking this medicine, or when the dose is increased. Getting up slowly may help. If you should have this problem, check with your doctor.

Hallucinations (seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there) may occur in some patients. This is more common with elderly patients.

It is important that your doctor check your skin for melanoma regularly if you have Parkinson's disease.

Some people who have used this medicine had unusual changes in their behavior. Talk with your doctor if you start having problems with gambling or increased sex drive while using this medicine.