Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a chronic and progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. It affects approximately 10 million people worldwide and is more common in people over the age of 60.

PD is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain, which leads to an imbalance of certain brain chemicals.

Treatment Options for Parkinson’s Disease

Although there is no cure for PD, there are several medications available that can help manage its symptoms. The goal of medication therapy is to increase dopamine levels in the brain or to mimic the effects of dopamine on the brain.

Dopamine Replacements

The most common type of medication used for PD are dopamine replacements. These medications work by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. They are often the first-choice treatment for PD and include:.

1. Levodopa (L-Dopa)

Levodopa (L-Dopa) is a precursor to dopamine. It is converted to dopamine in the brain and helps replace the dopamine that is lost in PD.

L-Dopa is often combined with carbidopa, a medication that helps prevent the breakdown of L-Dopa before it reaches the brain. This combination is known as carbidopa-levodopa.

2. Dopamine Agonists

Dopamine agonists are medications that mimic the effects of dopamine on the brain. They work by activating dopamine receptors in the brain and can be used alone or in combination with L-Dopa. Common dopamine agonists include:.

a. Pramipexole (Mirapex)

Pramipexole (Mirapex) is a dopamine agonist that is often used in early stages of PD. It can be used alone or in combination with L-Dopa.

b. Ropinirole (Requip)

Ropinirole (Requip) is a dopamine agonist that is often used in early stages of PD. It can be used alone or in combination with L-Dopa.

c. Rotigotine (Neupro)

Rotigotine (Neupro) is a dopamine agonist that is delivered through a patch that is worn on the skin. It can be used alone or in combination with L-Dopa.

d. Apomorphine (Apokyn)

Apomorphine (Apokyn) is a dopamine agonist that is given as an injection under the skin. It is often used to quickly relieve “off” periods in people with advanced PD.

3. Monoamine Oxidase Type B (MAO-B) Inhibitors

MAO-B inhibitors are medications that block the breakdown of dopamine in the brain. They can be used alone or in combination with L-Dopa. Common MAO-B inhibitors include:.

a. Selegiline (Eldepryl, Zelapar)

Selegiline (Eldepryl, Zelapar) is an MAO-B inhibitor that can help improve symptoms of PD and may help slow the progression of the disease. It is often used in early stages of PD.

b. Rasagiline (Azilect)

Rasagiline (Azilect) is an MAO-B inhibitor that can help improve symptoms of PD and may help slow the progression of the disease. It can be used alone or in combination with L-Dopa.

4. Catechol-O-Methyltransferase (COMT) Inhibitors

COMT inhibitors are medications that block the breakdown of dopamine in the brain and peripheral tissues. They are often used in combination with L-Dopa to prolong its effects. Common COMT inhibitors include:.

a. Entacapone (Comtan)

Entacapone (Comtan) is a COMT inhibitor that can help prolong the effects of L-Dopa. It is often used in combination with carbidopa-levodopa.

b. Tolcapone (Tasmar)

Tolcapone (Tasmar) is a COMT inhibitor that can help prolong the effects of L-Dopa. It is used less frequently than entacapone because it has been associated with liver damage.

Conclusion

Medications can play a role in the management of PD symptoms. The type of medication and dosage will depend on the individual’s symptoms, stage of PD, and overall health.

It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate medication therapy.