What is Pramipex ER 1.5 mg tablet

Pramipex ER 1.5 mg is an extended-release tablet medication primarily prescribed for the management of Parkinson's disease and Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). Its primary ingredient is Pramipexole (1.5mg), a non-ergoline dopamine agonist. It selectively stimulates dopamine D2 and D3 receptors in the brain, compensating for the dopamine deficiency characteristic of these neurological conditions.

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd manufactures Pramipex ER, ensuring consistent quality and efficacy in each tablet. The extended-release formulation allows for once-daily dosing, providing steady medication levels throughout 24 hours. Compared to immediate-release versions that require multiple daily doses, it improves patient compliance.

Pramipex ER works by mimicking the action of dopamine in the brain, helping to control movement and reduce tremors, muscle stiffness, and slow movement in Parkinson's patients. For those with Restless Legs Syndrome, it alleviates the uncomfortable sensations and irresistible urge to move the legs that typically worsen during rest or inactivity, particularly in the evening and night.

Common side effects may include nausea, dizziness, somnolence (sleepiness), constipation, weakness, and, in some cases, impulse control disorders like compulsive gambling, shopping, eating, or sexual urges. More serious and rare side effects include hallucinations, confusion, fainting, and unusual or irregular movements.

Pramipex ER should be taken as prescribed, usually once daily, with or without food. To maintain its extended-release properties, the tablet should be swallowed whole without crushing or chewing. Dose adjustments are often necessary for patients with kidney impairment.

Treatment should never be abruptly discontinued, as this may lead to neuroleptic malignant syndrome or withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, depression, fatigue, sweating, and pain. Storage recommendations include keeping Pramipex ER at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light, and out of the reach of children. The medication should also be protected from extreme temperature conditions that affect its stability and efficacy.

What are the benefits of Pramipex ER 1.5 mg

Pramipex ER 1.5 delivers sustained dopaminergic stimulation through extended-release technology, providing 24-hour symptom control with a daily dose. It directly activates dopamine receptors in the brain, bypassing the degenerating dopamine-producing neurons that characterize Parkinson's disease.

The primary benefits include:

• Reduction in Parkinson's symptoms, including tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia (slow movement), and postural instability.
• Improved motor function and daily living activities.
• Decreased "off" time in patients with motor fluctuations.
• Relief from uncomfortable sensations and urge to move legs in Restless Legs Syndrome.
• Improves sleep quality for RLS patients and may delay or reduce the need for levodopa therapy.

It is crucial to note that while Pramipex ER provides significant symptomatic relief, it does not slow the progression of Parkinson's disease, and a healthcare professional should regularly evaluate treatment effects.

How to take Pramipex ER 1.5 mg tablet

Pramipex ER 1.5 mg is a prescription medication that should be taken as per your doctor's instructions. Here are the general guidelines:

• Take Pramipex ER exactly once every 24 hours, at approximately the same time each day.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
• It may be taken with or without food, although taking with food may help reduce nausea.
• Only your healthcare provider should make dosage adjustments. Never suddenly stop taking this medication or exceed the prescribed dose without medical supervision.

Strength and substitutes

The strengths and substitutes available for Pramipex are:

View all substitutes

What are the side effects of Pramipex ER 1.5 mg tablet

Pramipex ER may cause side effects, including:

• Nausea, dizziness, and drowsiness
• Sudden sleep onset (sleep attacks)
• Impulse control disorders (gambling, shopping, sexual urges)
• Orthostatic hypotension (drop in blood pressure upon standing)
• Hallucinations or confusion
• Swelling of hands, ankles, or feet
• Abnormal body movements or dyskinesia

Most of these resolve on their own. However, these adverse effects should be reported to your healthcare provider if severe or persistent. Particular attention should be paid to impulse control problems or sudden sleep episodes.

Safety Advice

Liver disease

No specific dosage adjustment is required for patients with hepatic impairment, as Pramipexole is primarily eliminated through the kidneys. However, patients with severe liver disease should be monitored closely during treatment for increased drug effects or side effects.

Kidney impairment

Dosage adjustment is necessary for those with renal impairment. For moderate kidney disease, dosing frequency may be reduced, while dose and frequency may need modification for severe impairment. Regular kidney function monitoring is recommended during treatment.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women

Pramipex ER is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C. No adequate, well-controlled studies exist in pregnant women. Use during pregnancy only if the benefit justifies the risk to the fetus. Pramipexole is known to pass into breast milk and may affect nursing infants. Therefore, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.

Avoid

Avoid alcohol as it may increase drowsiness and dizziness. Do not consume antipsychotic medications and Metoclopramide, which may reduce Pramipexole's effectiveness. Do not stand up quickly from a sitting or lying to prevent fainting.