Parkinson's Disease Health Center

Parkinson's disease is chronic and progressive, meaning that it steadily worsens over time. However, the condition affects each patient differently. While some patients may become seriously disabled, others may experience only minor motor disruptions. 

Certain pharmacological and surgical treatments can provide relief from certain motor disruptions but are not able to slow or stop the overall progression of the condition. Your doctor may prescribe a variety of medications for your specific treatment plan. These medications may include muscle relaxants, which can provide relief from stiffness and tremors.

Some medications commonly used to treat Parkinson's disease include:

• Levodopa (L-dopa), levodopa and carbidopa (Sinemet)
• Pramipexole (Mirapex), ropinirole (Requip), bromocriptine (Parlodel)
• Selegiline (Eldepril, Deprenyl), rasagiline (Azilect)
• Amantadine or anticholinergic medications to reduce early or mild tremors
• Entacapone

Other medications used in Parkinson's treatment may include:

• Memantine, rivastigmine or galantamine for cognitive difficulties
• Antidepressants for mood disorders
• Gabapentin or duloxetine for pain
• Fludrocortisone, midodrine, botox or sildnafil for autonomic dysfunction
• Armodafinil, clonazepam or zolpidem for sleep disorders

When medication alone cannot control Parkinson's symptoms, another treatment option is deep brain stimulation (DBS). DBS is a surgical procedure available to those with severe symptoms, such as tremors, rigidity, stiffness, slowed movement and walking problems. DBS uses a surgically implanted device called a neurostimulator, which delivers electrical stimulation to certain areas of the brain, thus blocking abnormal and damaged nerve signals that cause Parkinson's symptoms. Implanted beneath the skin typically near the collarbone, the neurostimulator device is similar in concept to a pacemaker and is about the size of a stopwatch. While most patients who undergo the procedure still require medication, many find significant relief from symptoms and less need for so many medications. 

Stem cell research plays a large role in the continued search for effective Parkinson's treatments. Embryonic stem cells are able to grow into any type of cell within the human body. They may possibly be used to form dopamine-producing neurons, which might alleviate symptoms in Parkinson's patients by overlapping the damaged cells in the brain that trigger Parkinson's symptoms. This could provide significant relief from symptoms and improve daily life for those living with the condition.