Permax Oral Uses This medication is used to treat Parkinson's disease. It can improve your ability to move and decrease shakiness (tremor), stiffness, slowed movement, and unsteadiness. It may also decrease the number of episodes of not being able to move ("on-off syndrome"). Pergolide is an ergot medication that works by helping to restore the balance of a certain natural substance (dopamine) in the brain. How to use Permax Oral Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually 3 times a day or as directed by your doctor. Taking this medication with food may reduce nausea. To decrease the risk of side effects (e.g., drowsiness, low blood pressure) when you first start taking pergolide, your doctor will slowly increase your dosage until the best dose for you is reached. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take it more often than directed. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. If you are taking levodopa or a carbidopa/levodopa combination, your doctor may direct you to decrease your levodopa dose after you start taking pergolide. Follow your doctor's directions carefully. Do not stop taking this medication without your doctor's approval. If you suddenly stop taking this drug, withdrawal reactions may occur. Such reactions can include fever, muscle stiffness, confusion, and hallucinations. Report any such reactions to your doctor immediately. When stopping extended, regular treatment with this drug, gradually reducing the dosage as directed will help prevent withdrawal reactions. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. It may take a few weeks for you to notice the full effects of this medication. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen.