In patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease, oral dopaminergic agonists, especially bromocriptine, are effective and make it possible to delay the use of levodopa. Their adverse effects are chiefly digestive and psychological. At an advanced stage of the disease, dopaminergic agonists are used in combination with levodopa to prevent motor complications.
The October issue of la revue Prescrire reports that rotigotine, a dopaminergic agonist delivered in the form of a once-a-day skin patch, has proved somewhat less effective than oral dopaminergic agonists. Its systemic adverse effects are those of dopaminergic agonists, as well as local reactions. These patches need to be renewed daily, and the dose for each patient needs to be fine-tuned over several weeks.
Overall, this drug represents a step backwards due to its lesser efficacy and increased adverse effects. Its arrival on the market is regrettable.
©Prescrire 1 November 2007
Reference:Prescrire Editorial Staff "Rotigotine (Neupro°)" Rev Prescrire 2007; 27 (288): 729.
See also: "Vu d'ailleurs : Rotigotine" (in French).
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