🧠 Parkinson's Disease

Commonly prescribed medications, what to avoid, and lifestyle guidance

📋 Overview

Parkinson's is a progressive neurological disorder causing tremor, stiffness, and slowed movement due to loss of dopamine-producing neurons. Treatment manages symptoms.

💊 Commonly Prescribed Medications

Levodopa/Carbidopa (Sinemet)Dopamine Precursor

Most effective treatment. Gold standard for Parkinson's symptoms.

Pramipexole (Mirapex) / RopiniroleDopamine Agonist

Used alone early or added to levodopa. Monitor for impulse control disorders.

Rasagiline (Azilect) / SelegilineMAO-B Inhibitor

Slows breakdown of dopamine. May have neuroprotective effect.

Entacapone (Comtan)COMT Inhibitor

Extends levodopa effect and reduces wearing-off periods.

AmantadineDopaminergic

Helps with dyskinesia caused by long-term levodopa.

🚫 What to Avoid

Antipsychotics (haloperidol, risperidone) dramatically worsen Parkinson's. Metoclopramide (Reglan) also worsens symptoms. High-protein meals reduce levodopa absorption.

🥗 Lifestyle Tips

Exercise is the most powerful non-drug intervention. Physiotherapy, speech therapy, fall prevention are all critical.

📋 Important Note

Always tell any doctor or anaesthetist you have Parkinson's before any procedure. Missing doses causes rapid symptom worsening.

🔍 Check Drug Interactions