Rotigotine
Rotigotine is a non-ergoline dopamine agonist used to treat Parkinson's disease. It is administered as a transdermal patch that provides continuous 24-hour drug delivery. The medication works by stimulating dopamine receptors in the brain to help control motor symptoms such as tremor, stiffness, and slowness of movement.
Rotigotine is a dopamine agonist patch used to treat Parkinson's disease by stimulating dopamine receptors in the brain.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N04BC09
- RxNorm
- 616739
- Generic
- Rotigotine
- Class
- atc-n04
- Brands
- Neupro
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Rotigotine is primarily used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, both in early-stage patients as monotherapy and in advanced stages as adjunct therapy to levodopa. It may also be prescribed for moderate-to-severe restless leg syndrome.
As a non-ergoline dopamine agonist, rotigotine stimulates dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in the brain, particularly in the caudate-putamen region. This activation helps compensate for the dopamine deficiency characteristic of Parkinson's disease, improving motor function and reducing symptoms.
Rotigotine is applied as a once-daily transdermal patch. Common side effects include skin reactions at the application site, nausea, dizziness, headache, and somnolence. Patients should rotate application sites and avoid exposing the patch to heat. The medication should not be stopped abruptly, as this may cause worsening of symptoms. May cause orthostatic hypotension; patients should rise slowly from sitting or lying positions.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy