Medications
While there is no cure for Parkinson's disease, medications can relieve or decrease symptoms. New medications are continually being developed, and you need to consult a physician who is knowledgeable about Parkinson's disease for information about the most recent medications available.
Because symptoms vary greatly from person to person and change over time, an individualized approach is required to determine the types of medication, doses, and frequency that are most beneficial to each person at each stage of the disease. There are several types of medications that are used to treat the various symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Each type serves a specific purpose, and it is sometimes necessary to take several different medications in combination to get the greatest health benefit. They include:
- Dopamine Agonists
Dopamine agonists may be used alone or in combination with levodopa to reduce symptoms in the early stages of Parkinson's disease.
- Levodopa Medications
Levodopa is a medication used to control symptoms of Parkinson's disease and may be used at all stages of the disease.
- COMT Inhibitors
Catechol O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors are used in combination with levodopa to treat people with Parkinson's disease. These inhibitors allow a larger amount of levodopa to reach the brain, which raises dopamine levels there.
- Anticholinergic Medications
An overview of medications that block nerve impulses (cholinergic nerve impulses) that help control the muscles of the arms, legs, and body.
- Selegiline
Selegiline is a selective monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) and may be used in the early stages of Parkinson's disease to treat very mild symptoms.
- Amantadine
For people with early Parkinson's disease, amantadine is more effective than anticholinergic agents at improving slow movement (akinesia or bradykinesia) and rigidity but less effective at improving tremors.
If you experience any side effects from your medications, report them to your physician. Changes in symptoms or side effects may indicate that your medications need to be adjusted.
In addition to medications, there are other treatments such as surgery, speech and occupational therapy and other therapies that may be beneficial.
