A dopamine deficiency (caused by a loss of dopamine-producing cells) in certain parts of the brain may be responsible for many of the symptoms of
Parkinson's disease.
Apokyn is classified as a dopamine agonist. This means that it works much like dopamine. Apokyn binds to dopamine receptors and stimulates them, much like natural dopamine. This can help relieve Parkinson's symptoms.
Despite the name of its active ingredient (
apomorphine), Apokyn does not bind to morphine receptors and does not act like morphine.
Apokyn is not approved for use in children. Discuss the potential risks and benefits of the drug with your child's healthcare provider.
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend Apokyn for something other than Parkinson's disease. In the past, apomorphine (the active ingredient in Apokyn) has been used for the following purposes:
Apokyn is not approved for such uses.