REQUIP

Requip tablets 2mg Why do I need this medicine? Ropinirole is used on its own or together with other medicines to treat Parkinson's Disease. It is used to improve the medicinal effect of other Parkinson's Disease medicines such as levodopa.

Ropinirole does not cure Parkinson's Disease but it can improve the quality of life for people who have the disease. It is sometimes used to treat other conditions.

How do I take this medicine? Take Ropinirole exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

You may need to take Ropinirole for some time before the full benefits can be felt. Continue taking Ropinirole even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by your doctor. Do not stop taking Ropinirole suddenly as this could worsen your condition.

Take Ropinirole with food. Try to take it at the same time each day. Do not chew, crush or break the tablet.
What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine? Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

Remember to take your medicine regularly. Ropinirole must be taken regularly for it to be effective. If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor or pharmacist know.

Can I take this with other medicines? Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, especially those listed here:

- mood medicines, antidepressants or sleeping pills
- metoclopramide
- antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin
- painkillers such as codeine, tramadol
- products that contain the hormone oestrogen such as birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription. How should I store this medicine? Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.

When should I not use this medicine? Alert your doctor if you are pregnant or become pregnant while being treated with Ropinirole.

Alert your doctor if you are breastfeeding. Do not breastfeed while being treated with Ropinirole. What should I take note of while taking this medicine? Alert your doctor if you have heart, kidney or liver disease, history of mental illness or if you smoke cigarettes.

As there have been reported incidences of skin cancer in some patients taking Ropinirole, your doctor will refer you to a skin specialist regularly to monitor your body's response. Are there any restrictions on the type of food I can take? Avoid alcohol.

ROPINIROLE

Ropinirole may cause you to suddenly fall asleep during your daily activities. You may not feel drowsy before you fall asleep. Alert your doctor if you fall asleep suddenly while doing something such as eating, talking or any other activity. Do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.

Ropinirole may cause your blood pressure to fall suddenly when you get up from a sitting or lying down position. To minimise this problem, stand up slowly.

Ropinirole may also cause dizziness, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, constipation, headache, tiredness, urinary difficulties, hallucinations or difficulty controlling your movements. These side effects are common especially when you have just started taking Ropinirole. Let your doctor know if these side effects get worse or if they do not go away.