Mirapex Safety Label Updates

Mirapex is a top-selling drug used to treat Parkinson's disease and restless leg syndrome (RLS). It is manufactured by two pharmaceutical companies, Boehringer-Ingelheim, and Pfizer. The drug works by stimulating the part of the brain linked to pleasure and reward-seeking behavior. Mirapex is sometimes prescribed for other conditions, such as fibromyalgia, depression, and sleep disorders.

2003 Study - Compulsive Gambling

A study conducted in 2003 raised concern about the possible side effects of taking Mirapex. The study, done by the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Research Center at Barrow Neurological Institute in Arizona, found that 1.5 percent of the Parkinson's patients treated with Mirapex developed compulsive gambling behavior. This side effect occurred in patients taking Mirapex, but not with those taking other Parkinson medication.

2005 Study - Compulsive Gambling and Involuntary Sleep

In 2005, results were confirmed by another study at the Mayo Clinic where 21 patients developed a compulsive gambling problem after taking Mirapex. This study also found that 20 percent of patients taking Mirapex suffered from uncontrolled sleepiness, including falling asleep while driving.

2008 Study - Compulsive Behaviors

According to a study presented at the International Congress of Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders in 2008, more than 13 percent of Parkinson's patients taking dopamine agonists suffered from at least one of the four severe behavioral addictions linked to Mirapex use: gambling, sexual food, and shopping addictions.

Mirapex Safety Label Warns of Impulse Control Disorders and Sleepiness

Safety labeling for Mirapex includes warnings that the drug may cause a person to fall asleep without warning, even while engaging in normal daily activities, such as driving. Labeling warns that Mirapex may cause hallucinations, dizziness, nausea, or fainting.

Mirapex labeling also recognizes that there have been reports of impulse control disorders and compulsive behaviors in patients and encourages patients to talk to their doctor if they experience new or increased gambling urges, increased sexual urges, or other intense urges such as compulsive shopping or eating.

Consult a Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been harmed by Mirapex, you should contact a Mirapex attorney to find out whether you are eligible for compensation for your injuries.