How can we treat parkinsons?

                  There are currently no cures for the loss of neurons in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Treatments are available only for the symptoms of the disease.

                   Combination of the drug Levodopa (L-dopa) with carbidopa is the most efficient treatment that helps increase the conversion of L-dopa into dopamine in the brain while minimising the side effects of Levodopa such as nausea. Such drug treatment could last within 4 to 6 years as the effects of the drug will begin to subside (ie. Drug dose becomes effective for shorter period of time that gradually wears off). Symptoms of the disease such as tremor, muscle spasms of the neck, eyes and jaw would then reappear again. Patients may choose to increase the dosage of the drug however this comes with risky effects of dyskinesia.

Alternative drugs include:

·         Dopamine agonists – “imitates” the action of dopamine in neurons of the brain. Although they are not as efficient as levodopa, they do not wear off easily and last longer in the brain.

·         MAO B (Monoamine Oxidase B) inhibitors- Prevent the breakdown of dopamine in brain caused by MAO B to slow down the loss of the neurotransmitter. Side effect are in most cases are mild

·         Amantadine- Alleviate the effects of dyskinesia and early mild symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Usually prescribed together with Levodopa-carbidopa.

                   Another costly method is through a surgical procedure known as deep brain stimulation (DBS). Electrodes are implanted within the body of the patient and are connected with the generator in the chest. This allows electrical signals to reach the brain and prevents the occurrence of the symptoms. DBS is usually conducted to patients suffering from the later stages of Parkinson’s disease (levodopa is no longer effective).