TRIVASTAL (PIRIBEDIL)
Trivastal Description
Trivastal is one of the main drug alternatives to Levodopa when treating Parkinson’s disease, a progressive disorder that causes poor muscle control, muscle spasms, tremors and stiffness, and sluggish movement. The active ingredient of Trivastal is Piribedil, a dopamine agonist that may be prescribed as a first-line treatment or it may be prescribed along with Levodopa and Carbidopa during the later stages of Parkinson’s disease (PD).
Although there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, there are effective medications such as Trivastal that can help you function independently enough to continue with certain daily activities and enjoy your time socializing with family and friends.
What is the Objective of Trivastal?
The active ingredient of Trivastal, called Piribedil, mimics the effects of dopamine, a neurotransmitter located in your brain that is responsible for sending signals between your mid-brain (substantia nigra) and multiple brain regions in order to produce smooth and purposeful movements. PD is thought to be caused by low levels of dopamine that occur from the impairment or death of nerve cells in the part of your brain that produces dopamine, which can cause some of the symptoms of this disease. By increasing the amount of dopamine, there is an improved connection between sending and receiving signals from this neurotransmitter that is critical for producing smooth movements.
About Parkinson’s Disease and Restless Leg Syndrome
Parkinson’s disease is a result of an impairment or death of neurons in the area of your brain that is responsible for movement. With the loss of these neurons or nerve cells, the dopamine levels drop and the symptoms of PD start. Treatment with Trivastal alone or with Levodopa enables you to be steadier on your feet and less tremors are evident so you do more on your own.
Trivastal may also be prescribed to treat restless leg syndrome (RLS) a neurological disorder that causes sensations in your legs that make you feel like you cannot keep them still. Some individuals jiggle their legs until the feelings pass. RLS can greatly affect your sleep with the crawly or burning feelings that keep you awake. Common causes of RLS include an iron deficiency, certain medications, caffeine or alcohol, and early stages of pregnancy.
Before You Take Trivastal
Discuss with your doctor the safety of taking Trivastal if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Explain other medical conditions or allergies to your doctor and list any OTC or Rx drugs you take or use currently, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements so it can be determined if Trivastal (Piribedil) is the right medicine for you.
Trivastal Precautions
Until you know how your body will react to taking Trivastal, be careful around machinery and do not operate a vehicle. Get up slowly from a sitting or laying position as Trivastal may make you dizzy. You should not start, stop, or alter the dosage of any meds without talking to your doctor first. Keep all scheduled doctor appointments as your blood pressure should be monitored while taking Trivastal.
Possible Side Effects of Trivastal
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
Drugs Similar to Trivastal
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