Key takeaways
Pramipexole (Mirapex, Mirapex ER) and Inbrija (levodopa) are both used to treat Parkinson's disease, but they work differently and are used in different ways. Pramipexole is a dopamine agonist taken orally, either as an immediate-release tablet three times a day or as an extended-release tablet once a day. It is available in both brand and generic forms. In contrast, Inbrija is an inhaled medication used to treat "off" episodes in people already taking carbidopa/levodopa medications like Sinemet. It is only available as a brand medication and can be used up to five times a day. Pramipexole can cause side effects like extreme sleepiness, nausea, and dizziness, while Inbrija can cause coughing, changes in saliva color, and nausea. Additionally, Inbrija is not recommended for people with lung conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), whereas pramipexole does not have this restriction.
