Initial experience with ropinirole PR (prolonged release)

Ropinirole is a non-ergolinic dopamine agonist, which has been used for over 10 years for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. A new formulation (PR = prolonged release) has been developed, which allows the drug to be released slowly (continuously) so that it only has to be given once daily. Switching from the previous ropinirole immediate release (ropinirole IR) to the prolonged release (ropinirole PR) formulation at the nearest equivalent total daily dose, can take place overnight and the acceptance and tolerability are good. The advantages are once-daily dosing, faster titration with good tolerability and more stable plasma levels. The new formulation is regarded as valuable addition to the currently available medications.