Parixol 180 mcg Tablet contains Pramipexole 180 mcg as the active ingredient. Please note the strength is in micrograms (mcg), not milligrams (mg).

Indications: Parixol (Pramipexole) is indicated for the treatment of:

• Parkinson's disease, either alone or as an adjunct to levodopa with a dopa-decarboxylase inhibitor.
• Moderate to severe restless legs syndrome.

Pharmacology: Pramipexole is a non-ergot dopamine receptor agonist. It alleviates Parkinsonian motor deficits by directly stimulating postsynaptic dopamine activity in the striatum and substantia nigra. It is also used as monotherapy for the initial symptomatic management of Parkinsonian syndrome. For restless legs syndrome, it is thought to work by its effect on the dopamine system.

Dosage and Administration: The dosage will be determined by your doctor based on your condition and response to treatment. The typical recommendations are:

• Parkinson's disease:
  • Initial dose: 88 micrograms (mcg) three times daily, which may be doubled every 5-7 days if tolerated.
  • Maintenance dose: Usually up to 350 micrograms three times daily, with a maximum dose of 3.3 mg daily in three divided doses. The levodopa dose may be reduced during pramipexole titration and maintenance.
• Restless legs syndrome:
  • Initial dose: 88 micrograms once daily, 2-3 hours before bedtime, which may be doubled every 4-7 days if necessary.
  • Maximum dose: 540 micrograms daily.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

• Dizziness
• Dyskinesia (involuntary movements)
• Nausea
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Abnormal dreams
• Confusion
• Constipation
• Delusion
• Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real)
• Headache
• Hyperkinesia (increased muscle movement)
• Increased eating (binge eating, hyperphagia)
• Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• Libido disorders (changes in sexual desire)
• Peripheral edema (swelling of the extremities)
• Paranoia
• Pathological gambling
• Hypersexuality

Precautions: Caution should be taken in patients with:

• Psychotic disorder
• Severe cardiovascular disease
• Renal impairment (dose adjustment may be needed)
• Regular ophthalmologic monitoring is recommended.

Pramipexole may cause drowsiness and can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness.

Drug Interactions: Pramipexole has fewer drug-drug interactions compared to some other dopamine agonists as it is not appreciably metabolized by the P450 system. However, interactions can occur:

• Cimetidine and amantadine: May reduce the renal clearance of pramipexole, potentially increasing its levels.
• Sedating medicinal products or alcohol: May have additive sedative effects when combined with pramipexole.

Contraindications: Parixol (Pramipexole) is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to pramipexole or any of the excipients.

Pregnancy and Lactation: The effect of pramipexole on pregnancy and lactation in humans has not been fully investigated. It should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Pramipexole inhibits prolactin secretion and should not be used during breastfeeding; if unavoidable, breastfeeding should be discontinued.

Storage: Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions and guidance regarding your medication. They can assess your individual medical condition and provide the most appropriate advice.