Parkinson

1. Definition
Parkinson's disease is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that often impairs the sufferer's motor skills , speech, and other functions.

2. Etiology
 Cerebral atherosclerosis
 Viral encephalitis
 Side effects of several antipsychotic drugs (i.e., phenothiazides, butyrophenones, reserpine)

3. Symptoms
 L Dopa Fairly Effective in Eliminating Most of the Symptoms of Parkinson Disease
 Bradykinesia and Rigidity Quickly Respond to L Dopa
 Reduction in Tremor Effect with Continued Therapy
 L Dopa less Effective in Eliminating Postural Instability and Shuffling Gait Meaning Other Neurotransmitters Are Involved in Parkinson Disease

4. Treathment
Treatment Is to reduce Dose and Put Person on Drug Holiday Where Stop All Medication for 3-21 Days and Then Slowly Reinitiate Therapy to Gradually increasing doses.

Long Term Therapy
 Behavioral Disturbances in 20 to 25% of Population
 Trouble in Thinking (Cognitive Effects)




 L Dopa Can Induce:
– Psychosis
– Confusion
– Hallucination
– Anxiety
– Delusion
 Some Individuals develop Hypomania Which Is Inappropriate Sexual Behavior; "Dirty Old Man", "Flashers"

Prefention of Parkinson :
• Sports
• Avoid Stress