This is my first time posting and I'm curious to find out how many people have been effected by gambling problems associated with Ropinirole ( and other dopamine agonists ).
My story: I've been on Ropinirole for approximately 18 years. Started on a low dose but eventually ended up on 12 mg extended release with 2mg of regular tablet as needed. ( I've read quite a few posts on this website and I haven't seen anyone taking close to this dosage ) Five years ago I started having strong urges to play scratch tickets. Scratch tickets lead to keno, keno lead to casino slot machines. I've lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. I'm currently broke.
When my gambling started I could not understand why I was doing what I was doing because, prior to this point in my life, I had no desire to participate in any kind of gambling. I simply could not control my actions even though I knew what I was doing was wrong. It wasn't until an internet search two years ago that I found out Ropinirole was causing my gambling addiction. I contacted my doctor immediately and he confirmed what I found on the internet. My immediate reaction was, " why wasn't I warned of this side effect ?".
I'm sharing my story for a couple of reasons. First, if you are taking any dopamine agonist, seek help immediately if you get any strange urges to gamble, shop excessively, or develop weird sexual desires. ( or any other compulsive behavior ) I've experienced the gambling problem and I don't want anyone else to go through what I've gone through.
Second, I'm curious how many people have developed a gambling addiction brought on by Ropinirole.
Third, has anyone had success in finding an attorney to bring a lawsuit against a doctor prescribing a dopamine agonist without warning of potential compulsive behaviors? Or has anyone considered a lawsuit against the manufacturers of Ropinirole?
I have a new PCP and I've seen two neurologists but nothing they've prescribed over the last two years has worked to relieve my RLS, including Methadone. I'm currently on 4 mg of Ropinirole and I'm willing to try anything to get off the stuff.
I welcome your comments.