Neupro (Rotigotine) Transdermal Patch

What is Neupro?

Neupro (Rotigotine) is a transdermal patch used to treat symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). It is a dopamine agonist that helps regulate movement and reduce discomfort associated with these conditions. Neupro delivers medication through the skin over 24 hours, providing continuous relief from symptoms.

How Neupro Works

Neupro contains rotigotine, which works by stimulating dopamine receptors in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating movement and emotional responses. In Parkinson’s disease, dopamine levels are low, leading to motor symptoms such as tremors and stiffness. Neupro helps alleviate these symptoms by activating dopamine receptors, improving movement control. For Restless Legs Syndrome, Neupro helps reduce the urge to move the legs and other discomforts.

Neupro Dosage and Administration

Neupro is available in patch form, with strengths of 1 mg/24 hours, 2 mg/24 hours, 3 mg/24 hours, 4 mg/24 hours, 6 mg/24 hours, and 8 mg/24 hours. The dosage depends on the condition being treated:

• Parkinson’s Disease: Treatment typically starts with 2 mg/24 hours for early-stage patients, gradually increasing by 2 mg every week to a maximum of 8 mg/24 hours. For advanced-stage patients, the starting dose is 4 mg/24 hours, which can be increased up to 16 mg/24 hours.
• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): Treatment begins at 1 mg/24 hours, and the dose may be increased by 1 mg weekly, up to a maximum of 3 mg/24 hours, based on patient response and tolerability.

To apply the patch, select a clean, dry, and hairless area on your abdomen, thigh, hip, or upper arm. Rotate the application site daily, avoiding the same spot for at least 14 days. Neupro should not be cut into pieces, and each patch should be worn for 24 hours before being replaced with a new one.

Possible Side Effects of Neupro

Common side effects of Neupro include:

• Skin irritation at the application site
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Headache

Serious side effects may include:

• Sudden onset of sleep during daily activities
• Hallucinations
• Increased blood pressure
• Impulse control disorders (e.g., gambling, binge eating)
• Heart problems, including arrhythmias

If you experience any severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Drug Interactions

Neupro may interact with certain medications, including dopamine antagonists (e.g., metoclopramide), sedatives, and alcohol, which may increase drowsiness. Caution should be taken when using Neupro with other medications that affect dopamine or the central nervous system. Always inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Precautions When Using Neupro

Before using Neupro, inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of:

• Heart problems
• Severe liver or kidney disease
• Impulse control disorders
• Allergic reactions to adhesives or medication ingredients

Neupro should not be used by patients who are allergic to rotigotine or any components of the patch. Avoid exposing the patch to direct heat sources, such as heating pads or hot baths, as this may increase the absorption of the medication and lead to side effects.

Buying Neupro from Canada

For U.S. patients, purchasing Neupro from Canada can be a cost-effective option due to the lower prices of prescription medications. Ensure that you are purchasing from a licensed Canadian pharmacy, and always have a valid U.S. prescription when ordering. Buying Neupro from Canada may help you save significantly on your treatment costs.

Storage Instructions for Neupro

Store Neupro patches at room temperature (15°C to 30°C) in their original packaging until ready to use. After removing a patch, fold it in half with the adhesive sides sticking together, place it in the original pouch, and discard it in a safe manner, out of the reach of children and pets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Neupro used for?

Neupro is used to treat symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and Restless Legs Syndrome by delivering a continuous dose of rotigotine through the skin.

Can I buy Neupro from Canada?

Yes, Neupro can be purchased from licensed Canadian pharmacies with a valid U.S. prescription. It is often available at a lower price compared to U.S. pharmacies.

How do I apply Neupro?

Neupro patches are applied once daily to clean, dry, hairless skin on the abdomen, thigh, hip, or upper arm. The patch should be replaced every 24 hours and the application site should be rotated.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the official product monograph here.