| Indication |
For the acute, intermittent treatment of hypomobility, off
episodes (end-of-dose wearing off and unpredictable on/off episodes)
associated with advanced Parkinson's disease. |
| Pharmacodynamics |
Apomorphine is a type of dopaminergic agonist, a morphine
derivative which primarily affects the hypothalamic region of the brain.
Drugs containing this substance are sometimes used in the treatment of
Parkinson's disease or erectile dysfunction. In higher doses it is a
highly effective emetic. |
| Mechanism of action |
The precise mechanism of action of apomorphine as a treatment for
Parkinson's disease is unknown, although it is believed to be due to
stimulation of post-synaptic dopamine D2-type receptors within the
brain. Apomorphine has been shown to improve motor function in an animal
model of Parkinson's disease. In particular, apomorphine attenuates the
motor deficits induced by lesions in the ascending nigrostriatal
dopaminergic pathway with the neurotoxin
1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) in primates. |
| Absorption |
100% following subcutaneous administration |
| Volume of distribution |
|
| Protein binding |
~50%-albumin |
| Metabolism |
Hepatic |
| Route of elimination |
Not Available |
| Half life |
40 minutes (range 30 - 60 minutes) |
| Clearance |
|
| Toxicity |
LD50=0.6 mmoles/kg (mice, intraperitoneal) |
