Dopamine agonists
Dopamine agonists are used to activating dopamine receptors in the brain. They perform similar functions as dopamine [1] in the brain. Examples of dopamine agonists include Mirapex, Parlodel, and Requip. You can take these drugs alone, or with Sinemet. Dopamine agonists are usually prescribed first and Sinemet is prescribed if the symptoms don’t improve. Requip and Mirapex are new drugs and are more potent and safer than older medications, like Parlodel. The most recent dopamine agonists, like Requip, have less severe long-term side effects. So, they are usually the first medication for Parkinson’s disease. The short-term side effects of dopamine agonists are severe. They include dizziness, confusion, nausea [2], hallucinations [3], and light-headedness. Your doctor may recommend treating nausea and vomiting with Lodosyn. Also, dopamine agonists do not exacerbate impulse control conditions, like excessive sex, gambling, eating, or buying. However, they can result in sudden sleepiness, so do not drive if using.