Requip XL is primarily used for relieving the symptoms of early and advanced forms of Parkinson's disease. This prescription medication works by acting like a naturally occurring chemical in the brain, called dopamine. Off-label Requip XL uses include treating fibromyalgia and tremors that are not caused by Parkinson's disease. The drug is not approved for use in children.
Requip® XL (ropinirole XL) is a prescription medication approved to treat Parkinson's disease. It is an extended-release medication that is taken just once a day to help control the signs and symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that results from the loss of neurons in a region of the brain that controls movement. This creates a shortage of the brain-signaling chemical (neurotransmitter) known as dopamine, causing movement problems that are characteristic of Parkinson's disease. At this time, the exact cause of Parkinson's disease is not known.
Although early symptoms of Parkinson's disease may be subtle, people will eventually develop a characteristic tremor (trembling or shaking) of a limb, especially when the body is at rest. As the disease progresses, existing symptoms may worsen and new symptoms may appear.
Requip XL can be used alone or in combination with other Parkinson's medications, and is approved to treat both early and advanced forms of the disease.