Controversies of Dopamine Agonists: Somnolence, Cardiac Valvulopathy and Repetitive Behaviors

The use of dopamine agonists has increased due to their effectiveness in treating symptoms of Parkinson disease (PD) and Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). Recently, rare but serious adverse effects have been linked to DA agonists, including sudden somnolence, cardiac valvulopathy and repetitive behaviors. Clinicians are in a difficult situation because of insufficient information to make clear recommendations to patients. We review these controversies, discuss pathophysiology and report current practices in light of such uncertainty.