Apokyn

Generic name:apomorphine injection [ a-poe-MOR-feen ]
Drug class:Dopaminergic antiparkinsonism agents

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Sep 3, 2020.

What is Apokyn?

Apokyn 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.

Apokyn is a prescription medicine used to treat "wearing-off" episodes (muscle stiffness, loss of muscle control) in people with advanced Parkinson's disease.

It is not known if Apokyn is safe and effective in children.

Warnings

Serious drug interactions can occur when certain medicines are used together with Apokyn. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use now, and any medicine you start or stop using.

You should not use Apokyn if you also taking alosetron (Lotronex), dolasetron (Anzemet), granisetron (Kytril), ondansetron (Zofran), or palonosetron (Aloxi).

Before using Apokyn, tell your doctor if you have an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood), a slow heart rate, low blood pressure or dizzy spells, a history of "Long QT syndrome," a history of stroke or heart attack, asthma, sulfite allergy, or liver or kidney disease.

You may have increased sexual urges, unusual urges to gamble, or other intense urges while taking this medication. Talk with your doctor if you believe you have any intense or unusual urges while taking Apokyn.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Apokyn if you are allergic to apomorphine.

Many drugs can interact and cause dangerous effects. Some drugs should not be used together with Apokyn. Your doctor may change your treatment plan if you also use:

• alosetron;

• dolasetron;

• granisetron;

• ondansetron (Zofran); or

• palonosetron.

To make sure Apokyn is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• asthma or a sulfite allergy;

• low blood pressure or dizzy spells;

• narcolepsy, falling asleep during the daytime;

• heart problems, long QT syndrome;

• a stroke;

• liver or kidney disease;

• mental illness or psychosis; or

• if you drink alcohol.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I use Apokyn?

Take Apokyn exactly as it was prescribed for you. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose.

Apokyn i...