This is a new nonergot, antiparkinsonian agent with chemical structure similar to that of dopamine. It is also claimed to be an excellent drug for early PD and may delay the need of levodopa for several years. Recommended both as a single agent and as adjuvant to levodopa, ropinirole is superior to bromocriptine and equal to levodopa in early stage disease.

No dose adjustment of ropinirole is necessary in patients with moderate renal failure. There is no study data available for its use in severe renal failure.

• Postural hypotension
• Somnolence
• Fainting
• Dizziness
• Nausea (well-tolerated and disappears over time)
• Hallucinations
• Confusion