Pramipexole Conversion to Ropinirole Controlled Release (CR)

An Open Label Conversion Study of Pramipexole to Ropinirole Controlled Release (CR) in Patients With Parkinson's Disease.

A conversion study of Mirapex (pramipexole) to Requip (ropinirole) controlled release (CR) in patients with Parkinson's disease to determine the appropriate conversion ratio and side effects related to the drug.

Three different arms will be used in this study. Each of the three cohorts will be treated sequentially. Each participant will be taking Mirapex for PD and will be converted to Requip CR by 1 of 3 conversion factors (mg:mg): 1:3, 1:4 and 1:5 from Mirapex to once a day Requip CR. The first five subjects of each cohort will have their initial dose administered in the clinic and be monitored for orthostatic changes. Assessments of motor function before and after conversion will be done.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of Parkinson Disease
• Currently taking pramipexole
• Never have taken Requip CR

Exclusion Criteria:

• Can not have significant adverse effects to standard Requip
• Can not have atypical PD due to drugs, metabolic disorders, encephalitis or degenerative diseases
• Can not have unstable medical conditions
• Can not be taking concurrent monoamine oxidase inhibitors except for selegiline (10mg per day or less)
• Female patients of childbearing potential must be using an effective method of contraception.
• Can not be pregnant or lactating.

This may not be a complete list; there may be additional criteria which may apply.