Pramipexole

Pramipexole (Mirapex) stimulates dopamine receptors in the brain, compensating for the dopamine deficiency seen in Parkinson's disease and helping to relieve the urge to move associated with restless legs syndrome (RLS). It is FDA-approved for both the treatment of Parkinson's disease (as monotherapy or with levodopa) and for moderate to severe primary RLS. Pramipexole can cause sudden sleep onset, impulse control disorders (such as compulsive gambling or shopping), and orthostatic hypotension, so patients should be counseled about these risks, particularly when driving or operating machinery.