More than 250 people have contacted the BBC about addictions, including gambling, sex, and shopping, caused by a family of drugs prescribed for movement disorders.
Emma, one of those who got in touch, had lost tens of thousands of pounds due to compulsive gambling and spending, which she believes was triggered by her medication, Ropinirole, manufactured by British pharmaceutical firm GSK.
Emma says she only discovered the link with her medication when her husband researched her drugs and found a BBC News article, after which she requested to have her medication changed.
Police Response and Timeline
A police officer is among those who have contacted the BBC, along with nurses, doctors, and a director of risk for a bank, all of whom have experienced addictions caused by dopamine agonist drugs.
Nearly a year after the BBC first reported the ruinous consequences of such impulsive behaviours, many patients say doctors are still failing to properly warn them about the side effects of these drugs.
Investigation Underway
Last week, the chair of the MPs' Health Select Committee asked the UK drug regulator to review warnings about these side effects, and the government called the latest findings 'hugely concerning'.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said it took years for warnings to appear in 2007 because such a decision requires all available evidence to be considered.
Official Statements
GSK told the BBC that its drug was extensively trialled, continues to be approved by regulators around the world, and that side effects are clearly stated.
Charities like Parkinson's UK and RLS-UK can offer support, and NHS advice is clear - if you're taking these drugs and you have any concerns, you should speak to a doctor.
