Hi Flame. I feel for you.

BTW, it was a doctor who responded. He's truly the best guy imaginable. He's written a great book about RLS with two other doctors and works an unbelievable amount on that website answering emails.

Reducing the Effexor - or changing it to something more RLS friendly, like Wellburtrin - could completely reduce the need for the Mirapex since it seems it started when the ADs started. They are notorious for causing RLS in people who never had it before. As Dr B said to you, Mirapex can (and often is) prescribed in low doses. When I was on it, I started at .125 mg. I had other problems with it and ended up at .75 mg before I stopped it completely. Your husband may need the higher dose to control the RLS because of the AD. With a different AD or a lower dose of it, he'd probably need less Mirapex.

I've been reading a lot of press this AM about the questioned compulsive effects of Mirapex. I never used to have any compulsions; instead, I could "sqeeze a nickel so tight you could hear the buffalo ****."

Several months after starting Mirapex, I was casually introduced to gambling while on a business trip to Vegas. Since then, it's been continuous and as much as I've tried to stop this compulsion, it's been with me, ruining our lives.

Even if the Mirapex is the 'culprit' and I have something to blame our indebtedness (hubby is aware of the problem, but not to possible ties to Mirapex) on-is there a substitute for Mirapex that I can suggest to my doc that you're aware of.

Other than hubby, I've never mentioned to ANYONE about this compulsion; this is SO MUCH NOT ME! Please don't judge; I need support and suggestions now.

Hello TRN,

I didn't see where you posted why you were taking the Mirapex. I'm thinking that it would probably make a difference as to what might be suggested as an alternative to Mirapex.

This site was given to me by someone on another site. It does list an alternative drug that does not have this same side effects as Mirapex.

http://www.yourlawyer.com/topics/overview/mirapex

I can understand how you might be feeling about all of this. But goodness, it is VERY obvious that you have no control over this. It appears as if you are trying to take control. You are realizing that there IS a problem and looking into other drugs that you might change to. I just can't believe that anyone here would judge you.

My husband's doctor does not agree with me .. as far as changing my husband's prescriptions. He sites that my husband drank before he went on his new(er) meds. Well, yes .. he did, but absolutely nothing like he does now. Sigh .. that's a whole 'nother story.

Knowing how I feel about my husband's situation, I would think that you would work hard at getting off of the Mirapex .. just as fast as you can.

I'm sorry that I don't have any other info/suggestions for you. I wanted to let you know that someone out there is "listening" and supportive of you.

Best,
Flame

I've had PD since I was 47. A few years ago my life was hell on earth. I thought I was losing my mind. I am a moral person with spiritual values. The "fog" I was in with these agonists lasted about 16 months. Never gambled before - lost over $27,000 at casinos. Was a virgin when I got married almost 40 years ago. Under the influence of these drugs I did unspeakable things with call girls, massages, and gay encounters. I am a tea-totaler. I ended up drunk as often as I could manage. I lied to my wife and didn't tell my doctors even when they asked. If it wasn't for God's grace and my wife's tough love I don't know where I'd be today.

If the drugs work for you - fine. But I am convinced the numbers of people suffering in this addictive fog are shamefully silent. Don't take this lightly. For the rest of you who have been where I've been....speak up. "The truth WILL set you free."