Ropinirole has some of the same effects as a chemical called dopamine, which occurs naturally in your body. Low levels of dopamine in the brain are associated with Parkinson's disease.
Ropinirole is used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease (stiffness, tremors, muscle spasms, and poor muscle control). Ropinirole is also used to treat restless legs syndrome (RLS).
Only immediate-release ropinirole (Requip) is approved to treat either Parkinson symptoms or RLS. Extended-release ropinirole (Requip XL) is approved only to treat Parkinson symptoms.
Parkinson's and RLS are two separate disorders. Having one of these conditions will not cause you to have the other condition.
Ropinirole may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
