Dosage guidance:
Dosing: Dosage is expressed as pramipexole dihydrochloride monohydrate salt, consistent with US and Canadian labeling; in some other countries, dosing may be expressed as pramipexole base. Pramipexole dihydrochloride monohydrate salt contains ~70% pramipexole base (Ref).
Parkinson disease (monotherapy or adjunctive therapy):
Immediate release: Oral: Initial: 0.125 mg 3 times daily; increase gradually (eg, 0.125 mg/dose) every 5 to 7 days based on response and tolerability up to 4.5 mg/day. Usual dose: 1.5 to 4.5 mg/day in divided doses (Ref).
Extended release: Oral: Initial: 0.375 mg once daily; increase by 0.375 mg every 5 to 7 days based on response and tolerability. Usual dose: 1.5 to 4.5 mg once daily; maximum: 4.5 mg/day (Ref).
Converting from pramipexole immediate release to pramipexole extended release: May initiate extended release the morning after the last immediate release evening dose is taken. The total daily dose should remain the same.
Restless legs syndrome (alternative agent):
Immediate release: Oral: Initial: 0.125 mg once daily 2 to 3 hours before bedtime. Daily dose may be increased based on response and tolerability to 0.25 mg after 4 to 7 days. Daily dose may then be increased to 0.5 mg after 4 to 7 days. Alternatively, some experts recommend increasing by 0.125 mg every 2 to 3 days based on response and tolerability to lowest effective dose, up to a maximum of 0.75 mg/day (Ref).
Note: If augmentation occurs (worsening symptoms during dopaminergic therapy), dose earlier in the evening, divide into multiple evening doses, increase dose (keeping at or below 0.75 mg/day), or consider switching to alternative therapy (Ref).
Discontinuation of therapy: Do not discontinue abruptly; the manufacturer of the IR and ER formulations recommends reducing dose by 0.75 mg/day until daily dose is 0.75 mg, then reducing by 0.375 mg/day thereafter.
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
The renal dosing recommendations are based upon the best available evidence and clinical expertise. Senior Editorial Team: Bruce Mueller, PharmD, FCCP, FASN, FNKF; Jason A. Roberts, PhD, BPharm (Hons), B App Sc, FSHP, FISAC; Michael Heung, MD, MS.
Note: Dosage is expressed as pramipexole dihydrochloride monohydrate salt, consistent with US and Canadian labeling; in some other countries, dosing may be expressed as pramipexole base. Pramipexole dihydrochloride monohydrate salt contains ~70% pramipexole base (Ref).
Altered kidney function:
Parkinson disease |
Restless legs syndrome | ||
---|---|---|---|
CrCl |
Immediate release |
Extended release |
Immediate release |
a Recommendation extrapolated from Miranda 2004, which demonstrated tolerability of doses up to 0.5 mg once daily in hemodialysis patients with restless legs syndrome. Since pramipexole is negligibly dialyzed, patients with CrCl <15 mL/minute may exhibit similar pharmacokinetics/tolerability. | |||
>50 mL/minute |
Initial: 0.125 mg 3 times daily; refer to indication-specific adult dosing section for titration recommendations. |
Initial: 0.375 mg once daily; refer to indication-specific adult dosing section for titration recommendations. |
Initial: 0.125 mg once daily 2 to 3 hours before bedtime; refer to indication-specific adult dosing section for titration recommendations. |
30 to 50 mL/minute |
Initial: 0.125 mg twice daily; increase gradually (eg, 0.125 mg/dose) every 5 to 7 days based on response and tolerability; maximum: 0.75 mg 3 times daily. |
Initial: 0.375 mg every other day; may increase to 0.375 mg once daily no sooner than 1 week after initiation. If necessary, may increase by 0.375 mg per dose not more frequently than weekly; maximum recommended dose: 2.25 mg once daily. |
Initial: 0.125 mg once daily 2 to 3 hours before bedtime; may increase to 0.25 mg once daily after 14 days. May further increase in 0.125 to 0.25 mg/day increments every 14 days based on response and tolerability, up to a maximum of 0.75 mg/day. |
15 to <30 mL/minute |
Initial: 0.125 mg once daily; increase gradually (eg, 0.125 mg/dose) every 5 to 7 days based on response and tolerability; maximum: 1.5 mg once daily. |
Use not recommended. |
Initial: 0.125 mg once daily 2 to 3 hours before bedtime; may increase to 0.25 mg once daily after 14 days. May further increase in 0.125 to 0.25 mg/day increments every 14 days based on response and tolerability, up to a maximum of 0.75 mg/day. |
<15 mL/minute |
Initial: 0.125 mg once daily; increase gradually (eg, 0.125 mg/dose) every 5 to 7 days based on response and tolerability; use with caution; maximum: 0.5 mg once daily.a |
Use not recommended. |
Initial: 0.125 mg once daily 2 to 3 hours before bedtime; may increase to 0.25 mg once daily after 14 days. May further increase in 0.125 to 0.25 mg/day increments every 14 days based on response and tolerability, up to a maximum of 0.5 mg/day.a |
Hemodialysis, intermittent (thrice weekly): Not significantly dialyzed (Ref):
Parkinson disease: Dose as for patients with CrCl <15 mL/minute (Ref).
Restless legs syndrome: Initial: 0.125 mg once daily 2 to 3 hours before bedtime. Daily dose may be increased based on response and tolerability to 0.25 mg after 14 days. Daily dose may then be increased to 0.5 mg after an additional 14 days (Ref).
Peritoneal dialysis: Not likely to be significantly dialyzed (large Vd) (Ref):
Parkinson disease: Dose as for patients with CrCl <15 mL/minute (Ref).
Restless legs syndrome: Initial: 0.125 mg once daily 2 to 3 hours before bedtime. Daily dose may be increased based on response and tolerability to 0.25 mg after 14 days. Daily dose may then be increased to 0.5 mg after an additional 14 days (Ref).
CRRT:
Note: Drug clearance is dependent on the effluent flow rate, filter type, and method of renal replacement. Recommendations are based on high-flux dialyzers and effluent flow rates of 20 to 25 mL/kg/hour (or ~1,500 to 3,000 mL/hour) and minimal residual kidney function unless otherwise noted. Close monitoring of response and adverse reactions (eg, neurotoxicity) due to drug accumulation is important. Based on large Vd, pramipexole is not likely to be significantly dialyzed.
Oral: In general, use not recommended (has not been studied) (expert opinion). For patients with Parkinson disease receiving pramipexole prior to initiation of CRRT who continue to experience motor symptoms, continued use of therapy may be considered.Dose as for patients with CrCl <15 mL/minute (Ref).
PIRRT (eg, sustained, low-efficiency diafiltration):
Note: Drug clearance is dependent on the effluent flow rate, filter type, and method of renal replacement. Close monitoring of response and adverse reactions (eg, neurotoxicity) due to drug accumulation is important. Based on large Vd, pramipexole is not likely to be significantly dialyzed.
Oral: In general, use not recommended (has not been studied) (expert opinion). For patients with Parkinson disease receiving pramipexole prior to initiation of PIRRT who continue to experience motor symptoms, continued use of therapy may be considered.Dose as for patients with CrCl <15 mL/minute (Ref).
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling (has not been studied); however, no adjustment expected since undergoes minimal hepatic metabolism.
Refer to adult dosing.
Augmentation, a worsening of symptoms beyond the level of severity that was experienced when the medication was initiated, has been reported with dopamine agonists such as pramipexole, in patients with restless leg syndrome (RLS) (Ref). In addition to severity, the symptoms occur at an earlier time of day compared to pretreatment timing of symptoms (Ref). A pooled meta-analysis reported an overall augmentation rate of 5.6% in RLS with treatment (not specifically with pramipexole) (Ref). Historically, treatment with levodopa has been associated with the highest rate followed by dopamine agonists, such as pramipexole (Ref).
Mechanism: Dose- and duration-related; not clearly established. Proposed mechanisms include increased dopamine concentrations in the CNS and overstimulation of the dopamine D1 receptors compared to dopamine D2 receptors in the spinal cord (Ref). Iron deficiency may also reduce the function of the dopamine transporter, increasing dopamine concentrations (Ref). In addition, augmentation may also result from dopamine receptor down-regulation, which lowers tolerance to dopaminergic effects in a circadian manner (Ref).
Onset: Delayed; usually after months of treatment (mean duration 8.8 months) (Ref).
Risk factors:
• Higher doses (Ref)
• Longer duration of therapy (Ref)
• More severe RLS prior to treatment (may be related to higher dose use) (Ref)
• Iron deficiency (Ref)
• Older patients (Ref)
• Use of IR formulations (Ref)
Studies have identified a possible link between heart failure and pramipexole use (Ref). In these studies, the incidence of heart failure was higher in patients taking pramipexole compared to other dopamine agonists used for Parkinson disease or restless leg syndrome (RLS). This suggests that this adverse effect is most likely not a class effect (Ref).
Mechanism: Non–dose-related. In addition to high affinity for the dopamine D2, D3, and D4 receptors, pramipexole is also an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist. It has been proposed by directly activating alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, this agent may reduce adrenergic tone and myocardial contractility (Ref).
Onset: Not clearly established. One study demonstrated the highest risk within the first 3 months after initiation (Ref) while two studies suggested otherwise (Ref).
Risk factors:
• Longer duration of use (Ref)
• History of cardiac disease (Ref)
• Older patients (Ref)
Pramipexole has been associated with impulse control disorders, manifesting as pathological gambling, increased libido (hypersexuality), compulsive or binge buying/eating, and/or other intense urges (Ref). The prevalence of impulsive control was reported to range from 2.6% to 34.8% in Parkinson disease (PD). A lower prevalence was reported in patients taking dopamine agonists, such as pramipexole, for restless leg syndrome (RLS) (Ref). Rates of clearly pathological behaviors (ie, behaviors affecting social or occupational functioning) as high as 13% have been reported with therapeutic doses of pramipexole (defined as >2 mg/day) (Ref). Literature suggests that a clear temporal relationship exists between initiation and symptom onset and rapid resolution of symptoms usually occur after discontinuation (Ref).
Mechanism: Possibly dose-related; May be due to activation of dopamine receptors (mostly D3) involved in both the nigrostriatal and the reward pathways (Ref).
Onset: Difficult to determine. Most case reports discussed this presentation within months of therapy (Ref).
Risk factors:
• Higher doses (Ref)
• Higher affinity for D3 receptors (Ref)
• Males (for PD) (Ref)
• Younger age (Ref)
• Family or personal history of psychiatric symptoms (eg, anxiety and depression) (Ref)
• Family history of impulse control disorders (Ref)
• Earlier onset of PD (Ref)
• Longer duration of PD (Ref)
• Alcohol use (Ref)
Nausea and vomiting are known side effects of dopamine agonists, such as pramipexole. Studies have shown no apparent difference between immediate-release and extended-release treatment (Ref).
Mechanism: Dose-related; may be related to direct D2 receptor agonism within the chemoreceptor trigger zone (Ref).
Onset: Commonly seen in early phase of treatment (Ref). It is important to note that reports of nausea and vomiting in studies may be subject to recall bias; so, it is unclear whether the onset of symptoms occurred with the first doses or required weeks of therapy prior to onset (Ref).
Risk factors (possible):
• Higher dose (Ref)
• Rapid up-titration (Ref)
• Administration on an empty stomach (Ref)
Pramipexole may cause orthostatic hypotension (Ref). Patients with Parkinson disease (PD) may have an impaired capacity to respond to a postural change due to neurodegenerative processes in the brain stem. Orthostatic hypotension may be asymptomatic or symptomatic, leading to dizziness and falling (Ref). In one systematic review, the risk of hypotension was approximately four times lower with pramipexole than ropinirole when each drug was individually compared with placebo (Ref).
Mechanism: Primarily by venous and arterial dilation through inhibition of the sympathetic nervous system (Ref). Agents with lower affinity for D2 receptors may be associated with lower risk of orthostatic hypotension (Ref).
Onset: Varied; may occur at any point during treatment (Ref).
Risk factors:
• Initiation of therapy or dose escalation
• Autonomic dysfunction (as with PD) (Ref)
• Concurrent medications that may cause orthostatic hypotension (eg, antihypertensive or antiarrhythmic medications, diuretics, levodopa, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants) (Ref)
• Cardiovascular disease (eg, heart failure) (Ref)
• Hypovolemia (Ref)
• Younger patients with asthenic features (Ref)
Pramipexole may cause or exacerbate behavioral changes, including psychotic symptoms (eg, paranoid ideation, hallucinations, delusions, confusion, mania, disorientation, aggressive behavior, agitation, delirium) (Ref). Data have suggested a higher incidence with pramipexole versus ropinirole when compared to placebo (Ref).
Mechanism: Dose- and duration-related; Pramipexole is a non-ergot full agonist at D2 receptors, with some activity at D3 and D4 receptors as well (Ref). Psychosis is thought to result from D2 receptor stimulation (Ref).
Onset: Varied; one case report identified effects (eg, visual hallucinations) within approximately 2 to 4 weeks of dose up-titration (Ref).
Risk factors:
• Higher doses (Ref)
• Longer duration of therapy (Ref)
• Comorbid cognitive impairment or dementia (Ref)
• Older patients (hallucinations)
• Number of comorbidities and concurrent medications (Ref)
Somnolence (drowsiness) is an adverse reaction of dopamine agonists, including pramipexole (Ref). Patients taking pramipexole may experience sleep attacks (sudden onset of sleep), defined as sudden, irresistible, overwhelming sleepiness without awareness of falling sleep (Ref). Sleep attacks may also occur in patients with Parkinson disease (PD) in the absence of dopaminergic medications (Ref).
Mechanism: Likely multifactorial; related to modulation of dopamine receptors, specifically D3 agonist activity. May also be the result of increased dopamine, leading to down regulation of dopaminergic input to the reticular activating system. Genetic polymorphisms in dopamine receptors may play a role (Ref).
Onset: Delayed; some cases have occurred more than a year after initiation.
Risk factors:
• Longer treatment duration (Ref)
• Patients with PD (Ref)
• Depression in patients with PD (Ref)
• Disease duration <7 years (Ref)
• Age <70 years (Ref)
• History of sleep disorders (other than RLS)
• Concurrent alcohol or medications that may cause sedation or increase pramipexole plasma levels
Dopamine agonist withdrawal syndrome (DAWS) has been defined as a stereotyped cluster of physical and psychological symptoms that may be mild, moderate, or severe. Psychiatric symptoms may include anxiety, panic attacks, depression, irritability, agitation, dysphoria, agoraphobia, insomnia, drug cravings, and pain. Physical symptoms may include diaphoresis, flushing, nausea, fatigue, orthostatic hypotension, and vomiting. Psychiatric symptoms are the most common and prominent symptoms (Ref). DAWS has been reported mainly in Parkinson disease (PD), where it affects about 15% to 19% of patients who taper or discontinue a dopamine agonist (Ref). Some recent case reports have identified this syndrome in patients with restless leg syndrome (RLS) as well (Ref). Symptoms may be self-limited or protracted, lasting for months to years (Ref).
Mechanism: Exact mechanism unknown; may be dose-and duration-related. May be due to sudden changes in dopaminergic stimulation (Ref).
Onset: Varied; may occur at any time during taper or after discontinuation (Ref).
Risk factors:
• Higher daily doses (≥1.5 mg/day) (Ref)
• Cumulative exposure to dopamine agonists (Ref)
• Presence of impulse control disorder (Ref)
• History of deep brain stimulation (Ref)
The following adverse drug reactions and incidences are derived from product labeling as reported with the immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER) formulations. IR data are inclusive of trials in early Parkinson disease (PD) without levodopa and restless legs syndrome (RLS). Extended-release (ER) data are from trials in early PD without levodopa.
>10%:
Gastrointestinal: Constipation (IR: PD: 12% to 14%, RLS: 4%; ER: 14%), nausea (IR: PD: 24% to 28%, RLS: 11% to 19%; ER: 22%) (table 1)
Drug (Pramipexole) |
Placebo |
Dose |
Dosage Form |
Indication |
Number of Patients (Pramipexole) |
Number of Patients (Placebo) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
28% |
18% |
N/A |
Immediate-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
388 |
235 |
24% |
9% |
N/A |
Immediate-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
213 |
103 |
22% |
9% |
N/A |
Extended-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
223 |
103 |
19% |
5% |
0.5 mg |
Immediate-release tablets |
Restless legs syndrome |
80 |
86 |
16% |
5% |
0.125 to 0.75 mg/day |
Immediate-release tablets |
Restless legs syndrome |
575 |
223 |
11% |
5% |
0.25 mg |
Immediate-release tablets |
Restless legs syndrome |
88 |
86 |
Nervous system: Dizziness (IR: PD: 12% to 25%; ER: 12%) (table 2) , drowsiness (IR: PD: 22% to 33%, RLS: 6%; ER: 36%) (table 3) , headache (IR: RLS: 16%), insomnia (IR: PD: 4% to 17%; ER: 4%)
Drug (Pramipexole) |
Placebo |
Dose |
Dosage Form |
Indication |
Number of Patients (Pramipexole) |
Number of Patients (Placebo) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
25% |
24% |
N/A |
Immediate-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
388 |
235 |
12% |
7% |
N/A |
Immediate-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
213 |
103 |
12% |
7% |
N/A |
Extended-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
223 |
103 |
Drug (Pramipexole) |
Placebo |
Dose |
Dosage Form |
Indication |
Number of Patients (Pramipexole) |
Number of Patients (Placebo) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
36% |
15% |
N/A |
Extended-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
223 |
103 |
33% |
15% |
N/A |
Immediate-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
213 |
103 |
22% |
9% |
N/A |
Immediate-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
388 |
235 |
6% |
3% |
0.125 to 0.75 mg/day |
Immediate-release tablets |
Restless legs syndrome |
575 |
223 |
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Asthenia (IR: PD:14%; ER: 3%)
1% to 10%:
Cardiovascular: Edema (IR: PD: 5%), orthostatic hypotension (ER: 3%) (table 4) , peripheral edema (IR: PD: 5% to 8%; ER: 5%)
Drug (Pramipexole) |
Placebo |
Dose |
Dosage Form |
Indication |
Number of Patients (Pramipexole) |
Number of Patients (Placebo) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
3% |
1% |
N/A |
Extended-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
223 |
103 |
0% |
1% |
N/A |
Immediate-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
213 |
103 |
Endocrine & metabolic: Decreased libido (IR: PD: 1%), weight loss (IR: PD: 2%)
Gastrointestinal: Abdominal distress (IR: PD: 1%; ER: 2%), anorexia (IR: PD: 4%), diarrhea (IR: RLS: 1% to 3%), dyspepsia (IR: PD: 3%; ER: 3%), dysphagia (IR: PD: 2%), increased appetite (IR: PD: 2%; ER: 3%), upper abdominal pain (IR: PD: 4%; ER: 3%), vomiting (IR: PD: 4%; ER: 4%) (table 5) , xerostomia (IR: PD: 4%, RLS: 3%; ER: 5%)
Drug (Pramipexole) |
Placebo |
Dose |
Dosage Form |
Indication |
Number of Patients (Pramipexole) |
Number of Patients (Placebo) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
4% |
0% |
N/A |
Immediate-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
213 |
103 |
4% |
0% |
N/A |
Extended-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
223 |
103 |
Genitourinary: Impotence (IR: PD: 2%)
Infection: Influenza (IR: RLS: 3% to 4%)
Nervous system: Abnormality in thinking (IR: PD: 2%), akathisia (IR: PD: 2%), amnesia (IR: PD: 4%), balance impairment (ER: 2%), confusion (IR: PD: 4%) (table 6) , depression (ER: 2%), dystonia (IR: PD: 2%), falling (IR: PD: 4%; ER: 4%) (table 7) , fatigue (IR: PD: 6%, RLS: 9%; ER: 6%), hallucination (IR: PD: 6% to 9%, RLS: <1%; ER: 5%; includes auditory hallucination, visual hallucination, and mixed hallucinations) (table 8) , hypoesthesia (IR: PD: 3%), malaise (IR: PD: 2%), myoclonus (IR: PD: 1%), sleep disorder (IR: PD: 3%; ER: 2%), sudden onset of sleep (IR: PD: 6%; ER: 3%) (table 9) , vertigo (IR: PD: 2%; ER: 4%)
Drug (Pramipexole) |
Placebo |
Dose |
Dosage Form |
Indication |
Number of Patients (Pramipexole) |
Number of Patients (Placebo) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
4% |
1% |
N/A |
Immediate-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
388 |
235 |
Drug (Pramipexole) |
Placebo |
Dose |
Dosage Form |
Indication |
Number of Patients (Pramipexole) |
Number of Patients (Placebo) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
4% |
1% |
N/A |
Extended-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
223 |
103 |
4% |
1% |
N/A |
Immediate-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
213 |
103 |
Drug (Pramipexole) |
Placebo |
Dose |
Dosage Form |
Indication |
Number of Patients (Pramipexole) |
Number of Patients (Placebo) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
9% |
3% |
N/A |
Immediate-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
388 |
235 |
6% |
1% |
N/A |
Immediate-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
213 |
103 |
5% |
1% |
N/A |
Extended-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
223 |
103 |
0.1% |
N/A |
N/A |
Immediate-release tablets |
Restless legs syndrome |
889 |
N/A |
Drug (Pramipexole) |
Placebo |
Dose |
Dosage Form |
Indication |
Number of Patients (Pramipexole) |
Number of Patients (Placebo) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
6% |
1% |
N/A |
Immediate-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
213 |
103 |
3% |
1% |
N/A |
Extended-release tablets |
Early Parkinson disease |
223 |
103 |
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Limb pain (IR: RLS: 3%), muscle spasm (ER: 5%), tremor (IR: PD: 3%; ER: 3%)
Ophthalmic: Visual disturbance (IR: PD: 3%)
Respiratory: Cough (IR: PD: 3%; ER: 3%), nasal congestion (IR: RLS: 3%)
Miscellaneous: Fever (IR: PD: 1%)
Frequency not defined: Nervous system: Restless leg syndrome (IR: augmentation, rebound, or worsening of RLS)
Postmarketing (all indications and formulations):
Cardiovascular: Heart failure (Mokhles 2012), syncope
Dermatologic: Erythema of skin, pruritus, skin rash (Tashkent 2018), urticaria
Endocrine & metabolic: SIADH (Tomita 2005), weight gain
Gastrointestinal: Abnormal stools (tablet residue; may be associated with worsening of PD symptoms)
Genitourinary: Retroperitoneal fibrosis (Antonini 2007)
Nervous system: Aggressive behavior, agitation, altered mental status, behavioral changes, delirium, delusion, disorientation, impulse control disorder (including binge eating, compulsive shopping, increased libido, mania, pathological gambling) (Kolla 2010), paranoid ideation, psychotic symptoms (Li 2008), withdrawal syndrome (including anxiety, diaphoresis, and pain) (Yu 2017)
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Abnormal posture (postural deformities including antercollis, camptocormia [bent spine syndrome] [Kim 2012], and pleurothotonus [Pisa syndrome] [Galati 2014]), rhabdomyolysis
Respiratory: Pleuropulmonary fibrosis (Andersohn 2009)
There are no contraindications listed in the manufacturer's US labeling.
Canadian labeling: Hypersensitivity to pramipexole or any component of the formulation.
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• Dyskinesias: May cause or exacerbate dyskinesias. Use with caution in patients with preexisting dyskinesias.
• Postural deformity: Postural deformities, including antecollis, camptocormia (Bent Spine Syndrome) and pleurothotonus (Pisa Syndrome) have been reported following initiation, several months into treatment, or after increasing the dose. Consider dose reduction or treatment discontinuation in patients who develop postural deformity (complications may improve).
Disease-related concerns:
• Psychotic disorder: Avoid use in patients with a major psychotic disorder; may exacerbate symptoms.
• Renal impairment: Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustment may be necessary. ER tablets are not recommended for use in patients with CrCl <30 mL/minute or end-stage renal disease requiring hemodialysis.
Dosage form specific issues:
• ER tablet: Tablet residue resembling a swollen whole or partial tablet may be visible in the stool after taking the ER formulation. Some patients reported a worsening of their Parkinson disease symptoms when tablet residue was observed.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling. [DSC] = Discontinued product
Tablet, Oral, as dihydrochloride monohydrate:
Mirapex: 0.125 mg [DSC] [contains corn starch]
Mirapex: 0.5 mg [DSC] [scored; contains corn starch]
Mirapex: 0.75 mg [DSC] [contains corn starch]
Mirapex: 1 mg [DSC] [scored; contains corn starch]
Generic: 0.125 mg, 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 0.75 mg, 1 mg, 1.5 mg
Tablet Extended Release 24 Hour, Oral, as dihydrochloride monohydrate:
Mirapex ER: 0.375 mg, 0.75 mg, 1.5 mg [DSC], 2.25 mg, 3 mg, 3.75 mg, 4.5 mg [contains corn starch]
Generic: 0.375 mg, 0.75 mg, 1.5 mg, 2.25 mg, 3 mg, 3.75 mg, 4.5 mg
Yes
Tablet, 24-hour (Mirapex ER Oral)
0.375 mg (per each): $29.37
0.75 mg (per each): $29.37
2.25 mg (per each): $29.37
3 mg (per each): $29.37
3.75 mg (per each): $29.37
4.5 mg (per each): $29.37
Tablet, 24-hour (Pramipexole Dihydrochloride ER Oral)
0.375 mg (per each): $6.11 - $16.14
0.75 mg (per each): $6.11 - $16.14
1.5 mg (per each): $16.14
2.25 mg (per each): $16.14
3 mg (per each): $16.14
3.75 mg (per each): $17.74
4.5 mg (per each): $16.14
Tablets (Pramipexole Dihydrochloride Oral)
0.125 mg (per each): $2.95 - $3.34
0.25 mg (per each): $2.94 - $3.34
0.5 mg (per each): $2.95 - $3.34
0.75 mg (per each): $2.95 - $3.34
1 mg (per each): $2.95 - $3.34
1.5 mg (per each): $2.95 - $3.34
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Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, Oral, as dihydrochloride monohydrate:
Mirapex: 0.125 mg, 0.25 mg
Generic: 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.5 mg
Oral:
Administer with or without food; administer with food to decrease nausea. ER tablets should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or divided. For restless legs syndrome, administer 2 to 3 hours before bedtime; if augmentation occurs, dose earlier in the day, divide into multiple daily doses, or consider switching to alternative therapy (Ref).
Bariatric surgery: Tablet, extended release: Some institutions may have specific protocols that conflict with these recommendations; refer to institutional protocols as appropriate. IR tablet formulation is available. If safety and efficacy can be effectively monitored, no change in formulation or administration is required after bariatric surgery.
Parkinson disease: Treatment of Parkinson disease.
Restless legs syndrome (immediate release only): Treatment of moderate to severe primary restless legs syndrome.
Mirapex may be confused with Hiprex, Mifeprex, MiraLax
Substrate of OCT2
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.
Alfuzosin: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alizapride: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Risk X: Avoid combination
Amifostine: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may enhance the hypotensive effect of Amifostine. Management: When used at chemotherapy doses, hold blood pressure lowering medications for 24 hours before amifostine administration. If blood pressure lowering therapy cannot be held, do not administer amifostine. Use caution with radiotherapy doses of amifostine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Amisulpride (Injection): May diminish the therapeutic effect of Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Risk X: Avoid combination
Amisulpride (Oral): Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Amisulpride (Oral). Amisulpride (Oral) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Risk X: Avoid combination
Antipsychotic Agents (First Generation [Typical]): Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Antipsychotic Agents (First Generation [Typical]). Antipsychotic Agents (First Generation [Typical]) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Management: Avoid concomitant therapy if possible. If antipsychotic use is necessary, consider using atypical antipsychotics such as clozapine, quetiapine, or ziprasidone at lower initial doses, or a non-dopamine antagonist (eg, pimavanserin). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Antipsychotic Agents (Second Generation [Atypical]): May diminish the therapeutic effect of Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Management: Consider avoiding atypical antipsychotic use in patients with Parkinson disease. If an atypical antipsychotic is necessary, consider using clozapine, quetiapine, or ziprasidone at lower initial doses, or a non-dopamine antagonist (eg, pimavanserin). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Arginine: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Blood Pressure Lowering Agents: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Hypotension-Associated Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Brimonidine (Topical): May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Brivudine: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Specifically, the risk of chorea may be increased. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Bromopride: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Bromperidol: May diminish the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may enhance the hypotensive effect of Bromperidol. Risk X: Avoid combination
BuPROPion: Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of BuPROPion. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cimetidine: May increase the serum concentration of Pramipexole. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CNS Depressants: May enhance the sedative effect of Pramipexole. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Diazoxide: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
DilTIAZem: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Pramipexole. DilTIAZem may increase the serum concentration of Pramipexole. Risk C: Monitor therapy
DULoxetine: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may enhance the hypotensive effect of DULoxetine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Fexinidazole: May increase the serum concentration of MATE1/2-K Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Management: Avoid use of fexinidazole with MATE1/2-K substrates when possible. If combined, monitor for increased MATE1/2-K substrate toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Fexinidazole: May increase the serum concentration of OCT2 Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Management: Avoid use of fexinidazole with OCT2 substrates when possible. If combined, monitor for increased OCT2 substrate toxicities. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Foslevodopa: May increase the serum concentration of MATE1/2-K Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Givinostat: May increase the serum concentration of OCT2 Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Herbal Products with Blood Pressure Lowering Effects: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Hypotension-Associated Agents: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may enhance the hypotensive effect of Hypotension-Associated Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Kava Kava: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Kava Kava may diminish the therapeutic effect of Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Levodopa-Foslevodopa: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may enhance the hypotensive effect of Levodopa-Foslevodopa. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lormetazepam: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Methotrimeprazine: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Methotrimeprazine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Metoclopramide: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Risk X: Avoid combination
Molsidomine: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Naftopidil: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nicergoline: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nicorandil: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nitroprusside: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may enhance the hypotensive effect of Nitroprusside. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Obinutuzumab: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Management: Consider temporarily withholding blood pressure lowering medications beginning 12 hours prior to obinutuzumab infusion and continuing until 1 hour after the end of the infusion. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Pentoxifylline: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pholcodine: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may enhance the hypotensive effect of Pholcodine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Prostacyclin Analogues: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Quinagolide: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Risdiplam: May increase the serum concentration of MATE1/2-K Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Management: Avoid use of risdiplam with MATE substrates if possible. If the combination cannot be avoided, monitor closely for adverse effects. Consider a reduced dose of the MATE substrate according to that substrate's labeling if appropriate. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Silodosin: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Solriamfetol: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Sulpiride: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Anti-Parkinson Agents (Dopamine Agonist). Risk X: Avoid combination
Tafenoquine: May increase the serum concentration of MATE1/2-K Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Management: Avoid use of MATE substrates with tafenoquine, and if the combination cannot be avoided, monitor closely for evidence of toxicity of the MATE substrate and consider a reduced dose of the MATE substrate according to that substrate's labeling. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Tafenoquine: May increase the serum concentration of OCT2 Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Management: Avoid use of OCT2 substrates with tafenoquine, and if the combination cannot be avoided, monitor closely for evidence of toxicity of the OCT2 substrate and consider a reduced dose of the OCT2 substrate according to that substrate's labeling. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Triamterene: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Pramipexole. Triamterene may increase the serum concentration of Pramipexole. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Verapamil: May enhance the hypotensive effect of Pramipexole. Verapamil may increase the serum concentration of Pramipexole. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Food intake does not affect the extent of drug absorption although the time to maximal plasma concentration is delayed when taken with a meal. Management: Administer without regard to meals.
Information related to the use of pramipexole for the treatment of Parkinson disease (Benbir 2014; Lamichhane 2014; Mucchiut 2004; Tüfekçioglu 2018) or restless legs syndrome (RLS) (Dostal 2013) in pregnant women is limited. Current guidelines note that the available information is insufficient to make a recommendation for the treatment of RLS in pregnant women (Aurora 2012).
It is not known if pramipexole is present in breast milk.
Pramipexole inhibits prolactin secretion in humans and may potentially inhibit lactation. According to the manufacturer, the decision to continue or discontinue breastfeeding during therapy should take into account the risk of infant exposure, the benefits of breastfeeding to the infant, and the benefits of treatment to the mother.
May be taken with or without food. May be taken with food to decrease nausea.
Blood pressure, heart rate and signs/symptoms of postural hypotension (especially during dose escalation); body weight changes; CNS depression, daytime somnolence or preexisting sleep disorder, mental alertness, fall risk, behavior changes (eg, compulsive behaviors); periodic skin examinations; signs/symptoms of heart failure.
Pramipexole is a nonergot dopamine agonist with specificity for the D2 subfamily dopamine receptor, and has also been shown to bind to D3 and D4 receptors. By binding to these receptors, it is thought that pramipexole can stimulate dopamine activity on the nerves of the striatum and substantia nigra.
Absorption: Rapid
Distribution: Vd: 500 L
Protein binding: ~15%
Metabolism: Negligible (<10%)
Bioavailability: Immediate release: >90%; Extended release (as compared to immediate release): 100%
Half-life elimination: 8.5 hours; Elderly: 12 hours
Time to peak, serum: Immediate release: ~2 hours; Extended release: 6 hours
Excretion: Urine (90% as unchanged drug)
Altered kidney function: Clearance is 75% lower with severe impairment (CrCl ~20 mL/min) and approximately 60% lower with moderate impairment (CrCl ~40 mL/min).
Older adult: The half-life increases approximately 40% and clearance decreases approximately 30% in patients 65 years and older mostly because of reduced renal function with age.
Sex: Clearance is approximately 30% lower in women.
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