Doncaster man’s dopamine drug ordeal

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The son of a Doncaster man believes dopamine drugs prescribed for Restless Leg Syndrome caused devastating behavioural changes. Dr Alison Cave, MHRA chief safety officer said: "Patient safety is our top priority. No medicine is risk-free and impulse control disorders are a known risk for patients prescribed dopamine agonists. Our sympathies are with those affected by any side effects from their use. "Patients must be told about these possible side effects by their healthcare professional, and advised to speak to their doctor if they, their family or their carer notices any behavioural changes. "These medicines have improved many patients' lives but ultimately, doctors together with their patients must weigh up the pros and cons of the medicine when deciding on the most appropriate treatment. "We encourage patients and healthcare professionals to report any suspected side effects they experience with these medicines to our Yellow Card scheme. "We're carrying out a comprehensive assessment of all available information to determine whether any regulatory action is required to help raise further awareness of these risks with patients and healthcare professionals in the UK."