What does it do?

Apomorphine is used to treat Parkinson’s disease. It acts like a chemical in your brain called dopamine.

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have heart or mental health problems, low blood pressure, asthma, or an allergy to sodium metabisulfite.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Your doctor may do a heart test (ECG) before you start and while you are taking apomorphine.

How is it given?

Apomorphine is usually given as an injection or infusion under the skin.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and inject your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, inject the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not inject two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Hallucinations, confusion, unusual behaviour or thinking Fainting Drowsiness, yawning, falling asleep without warning Unusual urges (e.g. gambling, eating, spending, sex)	Tell your doctor
Strange or uncontrolled movements Dizziness Nausea, vomiting Unexpected erections Pain, tenderness or redness at injection site	Tell your doctor if troublesome
Lightheaded or dizzy after standing up	Stand up slowly. If it continues, or is severe, tell your doctor

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• You will need regular blood tests while taking apomorphine to check if it is causing problems with your blood.
• Apomorphine can impair your ability to do tasks such as driving or using machines. Alcohol makes this worse. Discuss your risk with your health professional. (search NZTA - Are you safe to drive?)
• If apomorphine is spilt, it can leave a permanent dark green mark. Immediately using stain removers may help avoid this.
• Store apomorphine as directed. Check the expiry before use. If you have any apomorphine leftover which has passed its expiry date, take it back to your pharmacy.
• Do not stop taking apomorphine without talking to your doctor first.