Which adverse effects are associated with pramipexole?

Which adverse effects are associated with pramipexole?

• A. Hypotension and sleep attacks
• B. Hyperglycemia
• C. Weight gain
• D. Tremors only

Answer: (A)

Pramipexole, a dopamine agonist, can cause excessive dopaminergic stimulation that affects both the CNS and autonomic system. The most characteristic adverse effects are orthostatic hypotension and sleep-related phenomena. Orthostatic hypotension happens because dopamine receptor activity can lead to peripheral vasodilation and reduced standing blood pressure, causing dizziness or fainting with posture changes. Sleep attacks or sudden daytime sleepiness occur due to central nervous system effects on wakefulness and arousal, and they can occur even with normal nighttime sleep. Hyperglycemia and weight gain are not typical or defining adverse effects of pramipexole, and tremors are usually a symptom that the drug helps reduce rather than causes as an isolated adverse effect.

Pramipexole, a dopamine agonist, can cause excessive dopaminergic stimulation that affects both the CNS and autonomic system. The most characteristic adverse effects are orthostatic hypotension and sleep-related phenomena. Orthostatic hypotension happens because dopamine receptor activity can lead to peripheral vasodilation and reduced standing blood pressure, causing dizziness or fainting with posture changes. Sleep attacks or sudden daytime sleepiness occur due to central nervous system effects on wakefulness and arousal, and they can occur even with normal nighttime sleep.

Hyperglycemia and weight gain are not typical or defining adverse effects of pramipexole, and tremors are usually a symptom that the drug helps reduce rather than causes as an isolated adverse effect.