Neupro

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Neupro (Rotigotine).

Allergy: People who are allergic to sulfites may experience a similar reaction to Neupro (Rotigotine). Before you take Neupro (Rotigotine), inform your doctor about any previous adverse reactions you have had to medications or foods, especially pickled foods, beer and wine. Contact your doctor at once if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as skin rash, itching, difficulty breathing or swelling of the face and throat.

Behaviour changes: Neupro (Rotigotine) has been known to cause changes in behaviour. You may notice compulsive behaviour, such as gambling, increased sexual activity or inappropriate spending. If you experience symptoms of Depression such as poor concentration, changes in weight, changes in sleep, decreased interest in activities, contact your doctor as soon as possible. If you notice compulsive behaviour or signs of depression in a family member, ensure that they see their doctor.

Drowsiness/reduced alertness: Neupro (Rotigotine) may cause drowsiness, low blood pressure or dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a lying or sitting position. Avoid driving or operating machinery that requires alertness until you known how Neupro (Rotigotine) affects you.

Heart disease: Neupro (Rotigotine) may cause increases in blood pressure or heart rate, or for your body to retain fluid. If you have a history of high blood pressure or heart disease, this may make the heart problems worse. If you have heart problems or a history of heart problems, discuss with your doctor how Neupro (Rotigotine) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Neupro (Rotigotine), and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Melanoma: People with Parkinson's disease may be at increased risk of developing melanoma (a type of Skin Cancer). It is not known if this increased risk is due to Parkinson's disease or to the medications used to treat Parkinson's disease. Your doctor will monitor you for skin cancer while you are taking Neupro (Rotigotine). Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.

Movement difficulty: When used in addition to medications containing levodopa, Neupro (Rotigotine) increases the risk of experiencing difficulty starting voluntary movement and can increase the side effects of levodopa. If you experience worsening side effects of these medications, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

MRI and cardioversion: The backing layer of these patches contains aluminum. If magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or cardioversion is required, the patch should be removed to avoid skin Burns. Inform any medical professional involved in your care that you are using Neupro (Rotigotine).

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): Rarely, Neupro (Rotigotine) can cause a potentially fatal syndrome known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). If you notice the symptoms of NMS such as high Fever, muscle stiffness, confusion or loss of consciousness, sweating, racing or irregular heartbeat, or fainting, get immediate medical attention.

Stopping the medication: If Neupro (Rotigotine) needs to be stopped, it should be done gradually, under the supervision of your doctor. Suddenly stopping Neupro (Rotigotine) can cause neuroleptic malignant syndrome, which can be fatal. Discuss with your doctor, the safest way to stop using Neupro (Rotigotine).

Sudden onset of sleep: There are reports of people who take Neupro (Rotigotine) and other medications for Parkinson's disease falling asleep with no warning or drowsiness. If you have a sleep disorder, discuss this with your doctor. If you experience drowsiness while taking Neupro (Rotigotine), avoid driving or using machinery.

Worsening of symptoms: People who take Neupro (Rotigotine) for restless legs syndrome may experience an increase in the severity of symptoms or find that the onset of symptoms occurs earlier in the day, compared to before starting Neupro (Rotigotine). If you experience increased symptoms, talk to your doctor.

Pregnancy: The effect of Neupro (Rotigotine) on a developing baby has not been determined. Neupro (Rotigotine) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Neupro (Rotigotine), contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: Neupro (Rotigotine) is likely to reduce the quantity of breast milk produced. In addition, Neupro (Rotigotine) may pass into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Neupro (Rotigotine), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Neupro (Rotigotine) have not been established for children.