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The “Wearing-Off”
      Effect

Parkinson’s disease patients have lower amounts of dopamine in their brain. Dopamine is the chemical that tells the brain how to process information about body movement. As Parkinson’s disease progresses, dopamine levels drop even more and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease become more noticeable.

As symptoms progress, patients who take Parkinson's disease medications may experience a wearing-off effect. This often happens when the medication from one dose wears off before the next scheduled dose. To counter this effect, a doctor may need to increase the dose of medication required to help keep symptoms under control.

Important Safety Information About REQUIP XL

Prescription REQUIP XL is not for everyone. REQUIP XL may cause you to fall asleep or feel very sleepy during normal activities such as driving; or to faint or feel dizzy, nauseated, or sweaty when you stand up. Tell your doctor if you experience these or the following problems, or if you drink alcohol or are taking other medicines that make you drowsy. Side effects may include nausea, dizziness, drowsiness or sleepiness, headache, and sudden uncontrolled movements (dyskinesia). Increase or decrease in blood pressure and heart rate may occur. Hallucinations may occur at any time during treatment. Also tell your doctor if you experience new or increased gambling, sexual, or other intense urges while taking REQUIP XL. REQUIP XL may increase the side effects of L-dopa. Most patients were not bothered enough to stop taking REQUIP XL.