I started taking Requip about 2 1/2 weeks ago, and thought
it might be helpful for others considering this medication, to
report my experiences so far.
I was diagnosed two years ago, and have been taking Eldepryl
since then; added Sinemet CR (50/200) two times a day, about one
year ago. Although this has been working well, based on all I
have read, and my neuro's recommendation, we decided to try
Requip, and attempt to reduce or possibly eliminate the Sinemet
for now. He said he has a number of new patients who are doing
well on Requip alone, but hasn't seen anyone completely stop
taking Sinemet yet. However, he thought that since I am at a
relatively early stage, and have only been taking Sinemet for
about a year, it was worth a try.
I was also advised to follow the SmithKline Beecham's
recommended beginning dosage:
Week 1 - .25 mg. 3x a day
Week 2 - .50 mg. 3X a day
Week 3 - .75 mg. 3x a day
Week 4 - 1 mg. 3x a day
According to their literature - "You may experience
improvement at the end of this initiation schedule." In other
words - it does take time. I've tried to spread out the
medications throughout the day, so that I take Sinemet 2 - 4
hours after the Requip. So far,I have not experienced any
troublesome side effects.
The first week, I felt no difference at all. During week 2,
I decreased my afternoon Sinemet to 1/2 tablet. This was probably
too soon, and did not work well; I felt very stiff by early
evening, and in the morning. Sleeping was even more difficult
than usual, and I often felt achy and generally "yucky." I
checked with the doctor after 4 days, and he advised to go ahead
with the next increase to .75 mg. By the second day on the
increased dosage, I started feeling better, although sleeping
continues to be a problem.
Next week I'll go to 1 mg. three times a day, and will try
to decrease the Sinemet to 1/2 tab twice a day. Will report on
any progress (I hope.)
I assume not having to wean off another dopamine agonist, at
the same time, has made this transition easier for me. Thanks to
everyone who posted the earlier reports on Requip. It has
certainly helped to have some idea of what to expect. It would be
great to hear about others' experiences with Requip, or any of
the other new medications.
Linda Herman
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