How Long Does It Take for Pramipexole to Kick In?

It takes about two hours for the immediate release version of pramipexole (Mirapex) to start working, while Pramipexole ER (Mirapex ER), the extended-release version, takes about six hours to work.

Pramipexole (brand names: Mirapex, Mirapex ER) is a dopamine agonist used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease and restless legs syndrome (RLS). 

• Pramipexole works by binding to and stimulating dopamine receptors in the brain, which raises levels of dopamine, a chemical that can help improve movement problems for people with Parkinson's disease or restless legs syndrome.
• The immediate release version of pramipexole (Mirapex) is released into the body soon after taking it, and takes about two hours to kick in. Only the immediate release form of pramipexole is used to treat restless legs syndrome (RLS). 
• Pramipexole ER (Mirapex ER) is an extended-release medication, and it is released into the body more slowly over time after a dose is taken. It takes pramipexole ER about six hours to kick in. 

Side effects of pramipexole include:

• dizziness on standing (postural hypotension),
• involuntary muscle movements, 
• movement problems (extrapyramidal symptoms),
• stomach pain,
• nausea,
• vomiting,
• headache,
• dry mouth,
• constipation,
• drowsiness,
• dizziness,
• spinning sensation (vertigo),
• swelling in your hands and feet,
• appetite changes,
• weight changes,
• blurred vision,
• sleep problems (insomnia or unusual dreams),
• problems thinking,
• memory problems,
• confusion,
• lack of energy,
• hallucinations,
• swelling in hands or feet,
• problems walking,
• stiff muscles,
• frequent urination,
• erectile dysfunction (impotence),
• loss of interest in sex, and
• difficulty having an orgasm. 

Withdrawal symptoms may occur if you stop using pramipexole suddenly.

Pramipexole may interact with:

• alcohol,
• narcotics, 
• sleeping pills, 
• muscle relaxers, 
• medicines for anxiety or seizures, 
• cimetidine, 
• metoclopramide, and 
• medicines to treat mental illness.

Tell your doctor of all the medicines and supplements you use.