Parkinson's Disease

See all Pictures & Images

Parkinson's Disease Treatment

There is no known cure for Parkinson's disease. Treatment is aimed at controlling the symptoms. Treatment must be tailored to the individual.

Medications control symptoms primarily by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain. The type of medication, the dose, and the amount of time between doses, or the combination of medications used, may need to be adjusted as symptoms change. Many of the medications can cause severe side effects, so monitoring and follow-up by the health care provider is important.

Deprenyl may provide some improvement to mildly affected patients. Amantadine and/or anticholinergic medications may be used to reduce early or mild tremors. Levodopa is a medication that the body converts to a brain transmitter called dopamine; it may be used to increase the body's supply of dopamine, which may improve movement and balance. Carbidopa is a medication that reduces the side effects of levodopa and makes it work better.

Additional medications to help reduce symptoms or control side effects of primary treatment medications include antihistamines, antidepressants, dopamine agonists, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and others.

Good general nutrition and health are important. Exercise should continue, with the level of activity adjusted to meet the changing energy levels that may occur. Regular rest periods and avoidance of stress are recommended because tiredness or stress can make symptoms worse. Physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy may help promote functioning, positive attitude, and independence.

Simple aids, such as railings or banisters placed in commonly used areas of the house or special eating utensils, may be of great benefit to the person experiencing difficulties with daily living activities.

Social workers or other counseling services may help the patient cope with the disorder and with obtaining assistance, such as Meals-on-Wheels, as appropriate.

Experimental or less common treatments may be recommended. For example, surgery to destroy tissues responsible for tremors may reduce symptoms in some people. Transplantation of adrenal gland tissue to the brain has been attempted, with variable results.