Falling asleep at the wheel: Motor vehicle mishaps in persons taking pramipexole and ropinirole

S. Frucht, J. D. Rogers, P. E. Greene, M. F. Gordon, S. Fahn

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

672 Scopus citations

Abstract

The authors report a new side effect of the dopamine agonists pramipexole and ropinirole: sudden irresistible attacks of sleep. Eight PD patients taking pramipexole and one taking ropinirole fell asleep while driving, causing accidents. Five experienced no warning before falling asleep. The attacks ceased when the drugs were stopped. Neurologists who prescribe these drugs and patients who take them should be aware of this possible side effect.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1908-1910
Number of pages3
JournalNeurology
Volume52
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - 1999
Externally publishedYes

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