ATC Group: N04BC Dopamine agonists

Apomorphine is a direct stimulant of dopamine receptors and while possessing both D1 and D₂ receptor agonist properties does not share transport or metabolic pathways with levodopa. Its actions on parkinsonian motor disability are likely to be mediated at post-synaptic receptor sites.

Bromocriptine is an inhibitor of prolactin secretion and a stimulator of dopamine receptors. The areas of application of bromocriptine are divided into endocrinological and neurological indications.

Cabergoline is a dopaminergic ergoline derivative endowed with a potent and long-lasting PRL-lowering activity.

Piribedil is a dopaminergic agonist (stimulates dopamine receptors and the cerebral dopaminergic pathways).

Pramipexole is a dopamine agonist that binds with high selectivity and specificity to the D₂ subfamily of dopamine receptors of which it has a preferential affinity to D₃ receptors, and has full intrinsic activity. Pramipexole alleviates parkinsonian motor deficits by stimulation of dopamine receptors in the striatum. Animal studies have shown that pramipexole inhibits dopamine synthesis, release, and turnover.

Ropinirole is a non-ergoline D₂/D₃ dopamine agonist which stimulates striatal dopamine receptors. Ropinirole alleviates the dopamine deficiency which characterises Parkinson’s disease by stimulating striatal dopamine receptors.

Rotigotine is a non-ergolinic dopamine agonist for the treatment of signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and Restless Legs Syndrome.