What you need to know about the skin patch (Rotigotine) used for Parkinson's disease

Has your doctor prescribed you a patch to control the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, or a condition called 'Restless Legs Syndrome' that causes restlessness in the legs? This is what we call the Rotigotine patch. It is most commonly available under the brand name Neupro. There are a few things we need to be very careful about when using this medication. So, let's talk about it all clearly and simply today.

What are the things I need to tell the doctor before using this patch?

It is very important that your doctor knows your complete health history before prescribing this medication. This is because some medical conditions can cause problems when using this medication. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor .

• If you have heart disease
• If you have high blood pressure or low blood pressure
• If you have kidney disease
• If you have any mental illness
• If you have a condition called Narcolepsy , which causes sudden sleep onset, or Sleep Apnea, which causes suffocation during sleep
• If you have previously had an allergy to Rotigotine, sulfites, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• If you are a breastfeeding mother

Based on this information, your doctor will decide whether or not this medication is right for you and how to use it.

How do you use the patch correctly?

Since this is a patch that sticks to the skin, the best results can only be achieved by using it correctly.

1. At the same time every day: Try to change your patch at the same time every day. If you choose a time like when you wake up in the morning, you're less likely to forget.

2. Remove the old one: Before applying a new patch, be sure to remove the old patch .

3. Rotate the location: Don't stick the patch in the same place every day. Rotate the area, such as your stomach, thighs, shoulders, and hips. Wait at least 14 days before applying a patch to the same area again. This can reduce the risk of skin allergies.

4. Keep the skin clean: The skin where the patch is applied should be clean, dry, and free of any creams, oils, or powders.

5. Apply firmly: After applying the patch, hold it firmly with your hand for about 30 seconds. Make sure the edges are well adhered.

6. Wash your hands: Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap after applying and removing the patch.

What if I forget to switch a dose?

If you forget to change your patch, apply a new one as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and apply the next patch at the scheduled time. Never apply two patches at the same time.

What if I take too much medicine?

If you think you have accidentally used too much medication (e.g., applying two patches), go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

Things to be especially careful about when using the patch

1. Excessive sleepiness and sudden sleep onset

This medicine may make you feel very sleepy or dizzy. Therefore, avoid dangerous activities such as driving or operating machinery until you know exactly how this medicine affects you. Sometimes, without warning , you may suddenly fall asleep while talking, eating, or driving. This is very dangerous. If this happens to you, inform your doctor immediately.

2. Uncontrollable impulses

Some people taking this medicine may experience unusual urges to gamble, engage in sexual activity, buy things without control, or overeat . This is a side effect of the medicine. If you or your family members notice any of these changes in your behavior, tell your doctor as soon as possible .

3. Body temperature and the patch

This patch is sensitive to body temperature. If your skin gets hot, the patch can absorb too much medicine into your body. This can be dangerous. Therefore,

• If you develop a fever , tell the doctor .
• Do not bathe in hot water.
• Do not sunbathe, use hot tubs, saunas, heating pads, or electric blankets.
• Avoid exercises that increase body temperature too much.

4. MRI tests

If you are having an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) test, be sure to tell the MRI technician that you are using this patch . The patch must be removed and discarded before entering the MRI.

Side effects of the medicine

Like any medication, this one can have side effects. Let's break them down into two categories.

Other things that may interact with this medicine

Tell your doctor about any other medications, herbal remedies, and vitamins you are taking, especially:

• Alcohol: Taking this medication with alcohol can greatly increase drowsiness.
• Antihistamines: Medicines for coughs and colds.
• Sleeping pills.
• Medications for conditions such as depression and anxiety.
• Medications such as Metoclopramide.
• Narcotics.

How should you store your medicine?

Keep out of reach of children and pets . Store at room temperature (20-25 degrees Celsius). Keep in the original package until ready to use. Throw away any expired patches. Fold the used patch in half, stick the sticky sides together, and throw it in the trash. Make sure to throw it away out of reach of children and pets.

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