Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Requip as follows:
- Requip use can result in sleep disorders, such as, sudden somnolence, hallucinations, vivid dreams, interrupted sleep, restlessness, and compromised memory. Sudden somnolence can be serious and life-threatening, especially in individuals with history of narcolepsy, which is an irresistible desire to fall sleep. Stay away from activities, such as, driving and operating heavy machinery, until you are used to the side effects caused by Requip. Seek for increased caregiver availability and assistance during the initial phase of starting Requip intake, to prevent risk for fall and accidents.
- Patients with history of mood disorders, secondary to Requip intake, can experience deterioration and worsening of symptoms of mood disorders. Individuals can present with worsening complaints such as, feeling low and depressed, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, gross appetite changes, impulsiveness, agitation, aggression, and suicidal thoughts. Notify your physician regarding any such worsening mood changes, so that, your dosage on the medication could be revised.
- Requip takes a few weeks to fairly balance the chemicals in the brain, before any relief from symptoms of Parkinson’s or restless leg syndrome is noted. Do not discontinue taking the medication without your physician’s consult, as you failed to see the improvement with symptoms, immediately after taking the medication.
