Dan,
I'm not sure I understand your question. Are you asking for opinions about Mirapex vs. Requip? If so, I can share my experiences regarding Requip. If not, Please disregard.
Mirapex and Requip are both dopamine agonists. They basically compete with each other - some folks get along better with one than the other. The side effects you often hear about with either medication is ankle swelling and compulsiveness - especially regarding sexual behavior and gambling. I think the compulsive behaviors are more common with Mirapex than Requip (my opinion).
I have been taking Requip since I was diagnosed in 2001. Initially only the 'regular' Requip was available. In the late 2000's (maybe 2008 or 2009) the patent (?) on the 'regular' Requip expired and ......... tadaaaa ...... they came out with an extended life - Requip XL - version that is patented. So they switched folks from Requip to Requip XL. The 'original' Requip was taken 3 times a day. Requp XL is taken once a day - usually morning or night.
The 'normal' dosage ranges from 8-24 miligrams. I started on 4 mg/day which I took for 2-4 years. I have gradually increased the dosage over time and am now on 18 mg/day. You should titrate up or down gradually over a period of time - not quit cold turkey. Requip XL works for me. Different people have different combinations of meds that work for them. I plan to stay on Requip XL as long as I can. At some point I will supplement the Requip XL with another PD med.
Hope this helps,
lizzy4451