Dopamine agonist drugs Common side-effects Impulse control disorder

You have been prescribed a type of These drugs are generally well Impulse control disorder is a possible medication called a Dopamine tolerated but some people can side-effect of some Parkinson’s Agonist to help control the experience some side-effects drugs. symptoms of your condition. This such as: may be Parkinson’s or restless legs. This behaviour is when the person There are several different types.  nausea and/or vomiting can’t resist the temptation to carry Some are taken 3 times a day and  light headedness out certain activities. These are often others once daily. One is a 24-hour  confusion activities that give an immediate patch worn on the skin.  hallucinations reward or pleasure, such as  leg swelling gambling, eating or shopping or an Listed below are the different kinds, increase in sexual thoughts or although some of these are less Nausea and dizziness can be feelings which may be out of commonly used today. helped by taking a type of anti- character for the person. Often sickness medication called people may demonstrate more than  ropinirole (Requip®) domperidone. Confusion and one of these behaviours.  pramipexole (Mirapexin®) hallucinations may be a side-  rotigotine (Neupro®) patch effect which means we may need  cabergoline (Cabaser®) to change your medication for Compulsive behaviour  pergolide (Celance®) another type.  bromocriptine (Parlodel®) This is when a person has an Leg swelling can be mild or more overwhelming drive or urge to act in pronounced. Adjustments to a certain way, often repetitively. This medication may be needed can often give no pleasure or reward. depending on degree of swelling.

Impulsive and compulsive behaviour Useful numbers: continued:

Both of these behaviours can have a Parkinson’s Nurses devastating impact on the person and those around them. North NHS Sharon If you think that this is happening to 01463 706378 Dopamine Agonist Medication you or the person you are caring for, tell someone right away. This can be CHP used to treat Parkinson’s or your GP, Parkinson’s Nurse or Cheryl Howe Restless Legs Consultant. Some useful contact 01631 710065 numbers can be found on the back page. NHS 24 111 Adjustments to medication doses can Patient Information help to stop these behaviours from Parkinson’s UK Helpline happening or worsening so it is very 0808 800 0303 Sheet important you speak to someone as soon as possible. Do not stop taking your medication without speaking to someone from the Parkinson’s Team Date drafted: December 2016 Author: S Sutherland first. Review Date: Dec/2017

5 Year Review: Dec/2021