Levodopa is the most commonly used medication for treating the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, it works by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain, which can help to improve symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. However, over time, the effectiveness of levodopa may decrease and symptoms may start to worsen again, this is known as "levodopa-induced dyskinesia" or "wearing-off effect".
When this happens, there are several treatment options that your father and his doctor may consider:
- Adjusting the dosage or timing of levodopa: Your father's doctor may adjust the dosage of levodopa he is taking or change the timing of when he takes it. This can help to extend the time between doses and reduce the "wearing-off" effect.
- Adding other medications: Your father's doctor may recommend adding other Parkinson's disease medications such as dopamine agonists (pramipexole, ropinirole, rotigotine) or MAO-B inhibitors (rasagiline, selegiline) to his treatment plan. These medications can help to supplement the effects of levodopa and improve symptoms.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) may be recommended as an option. DBS involves the implantation of a device that sends electrical signals to specific areas of the brain and can help to reduce the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
- Physical therapy and Occupational therapy: These therapies can help your father with balance, coordination and fine motor control.
It's important to keep in mind that every individual's experience with Parkinson's disease is different, and the best course of treatment will depend on the specific symptoms and progression of the disease. It's important to work closely with your father's doctor to develop an appropriate plan and to keep monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment.
Source: Vivacare
Last updated : 1/27/2023