Permax (pergolide) is a dopamine receptor agonist, meaning it stimulates dopamine receptors in the brain. It is predominantly used (along with other medications) to help improve motor function in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). Off label it may be used to treat restless leg syndrome.

The drug also sees some use in veterinary medicine. As with any medication, human formulations may contain inactive ingredients toxic to other species; be sure to buy Permax in veterinary formulations for use in animals.

Restoring Motor Function with Permax

The first-line treatment for improving the loss of motor function in PD, particularly if detected early, is levodopa/carbidopa. Levodopa, once ingested, is converted to the neurotransmitter dopamine, which the brain needs to control movement. Carbidopa enhances levodopa's effectiveness by inhibiting the conversion until the drug is in the brain. These medications help to:

• Reduce muscle rigidity
• Reduce tremor
• Improve coordination
• Improve speed

Patients usually buy Permax when levodopa/carbidopa begins to lose effectiveness. Instead of being converted to dopamine, Permax mimics dopamine, acting as a neurotransmitter, which produces effects similar to those of levodopa. Levodopa/carbidopa treatment usually continues along with Permax use, though levodopa dosage is often reduced.

In addition to improving the motor functions listed above many patients taking Permax experience fewer "off episodes," which often develop after long-term levodopa use.

Treatment can be relatively complex, as there are a great many factors which influence dosage; age, other medications being taken, other medical conditions and severity of PD are just a few. Patients are usually started on very low doses of 50 mcg (0.05 mg), which is then gradually increased every few days until the most effective dose is found; this process may take several weeks. Periodic dosage adjustments may continue for the duration of treatment.

Daily doses are typically divided into three smaller doses taken throughout the day. Treatment may continue for as long as the medication is effective. When treatment stops dosage is gradually reduced over time, the reverse of starting treatment.

Permax is a potent medication which can cause very serious adverse effects if used improperly. Doctor instructions should be followed to the fullest extent possible. Regular checkups are vital to ensure the medication is working properly and no adverse effects are developing.

Safety Concerns

Use of the medication is somewhat controversial, as there is some evidence that it may contribute to heart valve damage in some individuals. It has been discontinued in the U.S. and use is generally declining in most other areas. Other ergoline agonists, such as cabergoline, are similarly associated with heart valve issues. It is believed about 30 percent of patients taking ergoline agonists are at risk.

However, some individuals find Permax is simply the most effective treatment and consider the benefits well worth any possible risks. Patients planning to buy Permax are strongly encouraged to discuss the issue with a trusted doctor before starting treatment.

Individuals who are already taking Permax should not stop taking the medication abruptly, even if concerned about side effects; doing so can cause even more severe side effects to quickly develop. Transition to an alternative medication is best done slowly over several weeks, and with doctor supervision.

Buy Permax from a Trusted Source

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