Neupro (Rotigotine)

Do’s

• Wash your hands before applying the patch.
• Apply the patch to clean, dry, and hairless skin on your abdomen, thigh, hip, flank, shoulder, or upper arm.
• Press the patch firmly for 30 seconds.
• Apply a new patch daily at the same time.
• Use a different application site each day.
• Wash the application site with soap and water after removing the old patch.
• Use baby oil or mineral oil to remove any leftover adhesive.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the patch.

Don'ts

• Don't open the sealed pouch until ready to use.
• Don't use a cut, broken, or damaged patch.
• Don't apply the patch to oily, broken, irritated skin, or areas with creams, lotions, etc.
• Don't apply the patch to areas where it can rub off easily (skin folds, tight clothing).
• Don't shave the application site less than 3 days before applying.
• Don't touch your eyes or other objects until your hands are washed.
• Don't wear the same patch for more than 24 hours.
• Don't apply the patch to the same skin area within 14 days.
• Don't expose irritated skin from the patch to direct sunlight.
• Don't stop using Neupro without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't use solvents like alcohol or nail polish remover to remove adhesive.

To prevent the patch from falling off during showering, bathing, or exercise, be gentle. If needed, use medical tape to secure the edges. If a patch falls off, apply a new one to a different area and replace it at your usual time the next day. When removing the used patch, fold its sticky side together and throw it away safely.

Common side effects:

• Nausea
• Trouble falling or staying asleep
• Sleepiness
• Dizziness
• Excessive sweating
• Loss of appetite
• Swelling in hands, ankles, or feet
• Vision problems
• Vomiting

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Severe allergic reactions: trouble breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat, hives
• Falling asleep during normal activities, such as driving a car, doing physical tasks, or using hazardous machinery
• Mental/mood changes (such as confusion, agitation, hallucinations)
• Severe dizziness
• Fainting
• Unusual strong urges (such as increased gambling, and increased sexual urges)
• Fast heartbeat
• New or worsening uncontrolled movements
• Serious eye symptoms such as sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Neupro,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Disclose any allergies to Rotigotine or other medication ingredients, especially sulfites which can cause allergic reactions.

Medical Conditions to Discuss with your healthcare provider :

• Respiratory conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about asthma or other sleep disorders (like sleep apnea, narcolepsy).
• Cardiovascular conditions: Discuss any history of low/high blood pressure or heart disease (like heart failure).
• Other health conditions: Mention any history of kidney disease or mental/mood disorders (like schizophrenia).

Neupro may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid activities requiring alertness (driving, operating machinery) until you feel safe. Limit alcohol and marijuana use which can worsen these effects.

Avoid exposing the patch to direct heat sources (heating pads, electric blankets, hot tubs, prolonged sunlight). Heat can increase drug release and risk of side effects.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take (prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products) before surgery.

Neupro patches may contain metals that can cause serious burns during these procedures. Inform your healthcare provider  if you need an MRI or cardioversion. They will advise you on patch removal and reapplication.

Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, especially mental/mood changes (like hallucinations).

Neupro should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. It's unknown if Neupro passes into breast milk and may reduce milk production. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

Keep track of all medications you take (prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products). Share the drug Interactions list with your healthcare provider. This allows them to identify potential interactions with Neupro. Avoid medication adjustments without consulting your healthcare provider. Never start, stop, or change the dosage of any medications on your own.

Be aware that Neupro can interact with other medications that cause drowsiness, including:

• Alcohol
• Marijuana (cannabis)
• Antihistamines
• Sleep or anxiety medications
• Muscle relaxants
• Opioid pain relievers

Check labels of all medications (allergy, cough-and-cold products) for drowsiness-causing ingredients. Consult your healthcare provider for safe use of these products.