Use of the dopamine receptor agonist Mirapex in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.

We present a review of the literature on dopamine receptor agonists along with our own data on the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD) with Mirapex, which was used in 30 patients (mean age 61.8 +/- 7.7 years, duration of disease 8.4 +/- 1.3 years). Mirapex was used at a dose of 3.5 +/- 1.1 mg/day on the background of treatment with levodopa preparations. The efficacy of Mirapex was assessed using quantitative scales. Improvements were demonstrated in general state, motor activity, daily activities, and the quality of life. Attention is drawn to a decrease in the severity of motor fluctuations and dyskinesias and in anxiety and depression, and to improvements in cognitive functions. The significance of the combination of the high efficacy and good tolerance of this agent is emphasized.