Mirapex is not a cure, but it is a drug used to control and manage the uncontrollable and debilitating shaking of those with either Parkinson's or Restless Leg Syndrome. The drug does seem to produce some relief in the uncontrollable shaking which is why it was widely used throughout the states. Mirapex can also be used safely in conjunction with Parkinson disease medication like Sinemet, Larodopa, and Eldepryl. But the efficacy may be lessened.

Mirapex is still sold in the United States. The label of this controversial drug was updated in 2005 to add reports that "compulsive behavior" was observed among Mirapex users. The types of compulsive behavior however include compulsive gambling, shopping, hyper-sexuality, and over eating. As a result, many studies have been conducted to investigate the connection of dopamine antagonists, like Mirapex, and compulsive behavior.

Another lesser known side effect of Mirapex is memory loss. Unfortunately for patients, because the other side effects were so publicized, this little known fact slipped unnoticed by some doctors. Not only were users experiencing memory loss, but people have discovered that once they discontinued the use of Mirapex they began to have memory problems.

Even so, there are studies that show that Mirapex had a positive effect on cases. It was observed that when the dopamine antagonist was added to levodopa therapy, patients reported an improvement in their ability to function. This means that the daily amount of time that patients experienced abatement in the symptoms and their ability to control them was increased by at least 2 hours.

Additional side effects of Mirapex can include hallucinations, dizzy spells, sweating and nausea. In testing for Restless Leg Syndrome, it was found that the most common side effects were nausea. However for Mirapex the most common, at least among the elderly, people over 65, and those with advanced Parkinson's, was hallucination, the belief that you have heard or seen something that is actually not there.

Mirapex also affects drowsiness and low blood pressure in its users. But, more concerning is the tendency to fall asleep, with no prior indication of drowsiness, even while you are in the middle of your daily activities, like driving to work or making dinner. Mirapex users need to be cautious and always refer to physicians. To assist in reducing the risk of side effects, make sure that your doctor starts you with a lower dosage and then increases it on a slow gradient in order to introduce the drug to your body with as little shock as possible. Mirapex can be taken with or without food, but make sure you have at least one full glass of water with each dose.