Why is this medication prescribed?

Apomorphine injection is primarily prescribed for the treatment of advanced Parkinson’s disease. It is used to manage off episodes, which are periods when the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease return or worsen despite other medications.

• Parkinson’s Disease: Apomorphine helps to improve motor symptoms by stimulating dopamine receptors in the brain. It provides quick relief of symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slowness.
• On/Off Episodes: It’s used to manage sudden “off” episodes when other Parkinson’s medications aren’t working as well. This is particularly useful for people who experience fluctuating symptoms despite a stable medication regimen.

Apomorphine is typically used as a subcutaneous injection and may be administered using a pump for continuous infusion or as needed for quick relief.

How should this medicine be used?

Apomorphine Injection is typically used to treat Parkinson’s disease, particularly for managing “off” episodes when other medications are not effective. Here’s how it’s generally used:

• Administration: It is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) into the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. The injection is usually given in a clinical setting initially, but some patients may be taught to administer it at home.
• Dosage: The dosage is individualized based on the patient’s response and needs. It often starts with a low dose that is gradually increased to minimize side effects and find the most effective dose.
• Frequency: The frequency of injections can vary. It might be used as needed during “off” periods or on a regular schedule, depending on the patient’s condition and doctor’s recommendations.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is necessary to adjust dosage and manage any potential side effects.
• Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and drowsiness. It’s important to report any severe or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider.
• Precautions: Before starting apomorphine, inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you’re taking, especially those that can interact with apomorphine. It’s also crucial to manage any potential interactions with other Parkinson’s medications.

If you have specific concerns or need more personalized guidance, discussing them with your healthcare provider is the best course of action.

Other uses for this medicine

Apomorphine injection is primarily used for managing off episodes in Parkinson’s disease, but it may also have other applications:

• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): In some cases, apomorphine may be used off-label to treat severe cases of RLS when other treatments are not effective.
• Diagnostic Use: Apomorphine may be used in diagnostic tests to assess the function of dopamine receptors in the brain, particularly in Parkinson’s disease diagnosis.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Apomorphine Injection, it’s important to follow certain precautions to ensure its effectiveness and minimize potential risks:

• Allergic Reactions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any history of allergies to apomorphine or other medications.
• Medical History: Share your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of heart disease, blood pressure issues, liver or kidney problems, or mental health conditions.
• Interactions: Be aware of potential interactions with other medications. Apomorphine can interact with certain drugs, including those used for nausea or vomiting, and other Parkinson’s disease medications. Make sure your healthcare provider is aware of all medications you’re taking.
• Dosing: Follow the prescribed dosage and frequency closely. Avoid adjusting the dose on your own. Your healthcare provider will tailor the dose to your needs and may adjust it based on your response and side effects.
• Injection Technique: If you are administering the injection yourself, ensure you receive proper training on injection techniques to reduce the risk of infection and ensure accurate dosing.
• Side Effects: Monitor for side effects, such as severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or fainting. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any severe or concerning symptoms.
• Skin Reactions: Rotate injection sites to prevent skin irritation or damage.
• Hydration: Apomorphine can cause nausea and vomiting, so staying hydrated and following any dietary recommendations from your healthcare provider can be helpful.
• Regular Monitoring: Keep up with regular check-ups to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and make any necessary adjustments.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss with your healthcare provider whether apomorphine is appropriate for you.
• Emergency Plan: Know what to do in case of an overdose or severe reaction. Keep emergency contact information readily available.

Always follow the specific instructions given by your healthcare provider and consult them with any concerns or questions about using Apomorphine Injection.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Food and Drink Interactions: There are no specific dietary restrictions for apomorphine, but eating small, frequent meals might help manage nausea.
• Hydration: Staying well-hydrated can help alleviate some side effects like dizziness.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
• Consult Your Healthcare Provider:: If you’re unsure how to proceed or if you frequently miss doses, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Apomorphine injection can cause a range of side effects. Common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea and Vomiting: These are the most frequent side effects and can often be managed with anti-nausea medications.
• Dizziness: Apomorphine can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.
• Drowsiness: Some people may experience drowsiness or fatigue.
• Injection Site Reactions: Redness, swelling, or discomfort at the injection site may occur.

Serious Side Effects

• Fainting: Apomorphine can cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to fainting or a feeling of lightheadedness.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms like rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing could indicate a serious allergic reaction.
• Confusion or Hallucinations: In rare cases, apomorphine may cause confusion, hallucinations, or other mental/mood changes.
• Uncontrolled Movements: Some patients may experience dyskinesia (involuntary movements) or other motor control issues.
• Cardiovascular Effects: Changes in blood pressure or heart rate, including severe fluctuations, can occur
• Sudden Onset of Sleep: In rare cases, some individuals may experience sudden sleep attacks.
• Behavioral Changes: Changes in behavior or mood, including impulsivity or risk-taking behavior, can occur in some cases.

Keep track of any side effects you experience and report them to your healthcare provider. They can help determine if the medication is right for you or if adjustments are needed. For severe reactions, such as difficulty breathing or severe dizziness, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and instructions regarding the use of apomorphine and consult them if you have any concerns about potential side effects.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Apomorphine Injection:

• Storage:
  • Store apomorphine at room temperature, away from extreme temperatures. Typically, it should be kept between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
  • Keep the medication in its original container, protected from light and moisture.
  • Do not freeze apomorphine.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused or expired apomorphine according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or local waste disposal regulations.
  • If available, use a medication take-back program to safely dispose of the medication.
  • Do not flush apomorphine down the toilet or sink unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Signs of Overdose: Symptoms of an overdose might include severe dizziness, extreme drowsiness, fainting, or a significant drop in blood pressure.
• Immediate Action: Seek emergency medical assistance if you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms.
• Emergency Number: Call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room for immediate help.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Regularly visit your healthcare provider to monitor your response to the medication and make any necessary adjustments.
• Dosage Adjustments: Only adjust the dose or frequency of apomorphine as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Lifestyle Considerations: Be cautious with activities that require full alertness, such as driving, especially when starting or adjusting the dose of apomorphine.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss with your healthcare provider as apomorphine’s safety in these situations is not fully established.
• Inform Your Provider: Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.

By following these guidelines and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider, you can effectively manage your treatment with apomorphine.