Anti Parkinson Drugs

Anti-Parkinson Drugs are medicines that relieve the symptoms of Parkinson's disease and other forms of Parkinsonism. All Anti- Parkinson Drugs are available only with a physician's prescription. They are sold in tablet (regular and extended-release), liquid, extended-release capsule, and injectable forms.

What is Parkinson's Disease?
Parkinson's disease is the most common form of Parkinsonism. It is a disorder of the brain. All types of Parkinsonism occur when nerve cells in a particular part of the brain die or lose the ability to function. These cells normally produce a chemical called Dopamine, a chemical messenger that helps relay signals to different parts of the brain. This process is important in producing smooth, coordinated movement throughout the body. When Dopamine-producing cells are lost, normal movement becomes impossible. In people with late-stage Parkinson's disease, 80% or more of these important cells are dead or impaired.

Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease?

    Tremor or trembling in the hands, arms, legs, jaw, and face
    Stiffness or rigidity of the arms, legs, and trunk.
    Slowness of movement (Bradykinesia)
    Poor balance and coordination
    Automatic movements (such as blinking) slow or stop.
    Lack of expression in the face etc.


Treatmet Using Antiparkinson Drugs
It is to be noted that there is no cure for Parkinson's disease or other forms of Parkinsonism exists, but several drugs help relieve the symptoms. Some drugs replenish Dopamine in the brain. Others mimic the role of Dopamine or block the effects of other chemicals that cause problems in the brain when Dopamine levels drop.The goal of treatment is to control symptoms. Inspite of continued medications, there are cases of the symptoms recurring when the helpful effects of the medication wears off. In such cases, the doctor needs to change the type of medication, the dose, time gap between doses. The treatment program needs to properly inspected for further changes. Never change or stop taking any medications without talking with your doctor.

Popular Anti Parkinson Drugs

    Levodopa (L-dopa), Sinemet, levodopa and carbidopa (Atamet)
    Pramipexole (Mirapex), ropinirole (Requip), bromocriptine (Parlodel)
    Selegiline (Eldepryl, Deprenyl), rasagiline (Azilect)
    Amantadine or anticholinergic medications. They reduce early or mild tremors
    Entacapone. This prevents the breakdown of levodopa.

    Levodopa, which is used alone or in combination with Carbidopa, restores Dopamine levels in the brain. Carbidopa helps make Levodopa more effective and reduces some of the side effects that occur when Levodopa is taken by itself. Anti-Dyskinetics and Anti-Cholinergics block the effects of other brain chemicals, thereby reducing some of the involuntary tremors.