Parkinson’s disease

Parkinsons Disease Drugs Assignment

Introduction:

Parkinsons disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by loss of

dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, especially in the substantia nigra. It leads to tremors,

rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability.

1. Levodopa + Carbidopa

Mechanism of Action:

Levodopa converts into dopamine in the brain. Carbidopa prevents peripheral breakdown of

levodopa.

Dose & Timing:

100/25 mg, 34 times daily, taken with or after meals.

Side Effects:

Nausea, vomiting, dyskinesia, hallucinations, hypotension.

Contraindications:

Narrow-angle glaucoma, severe psychosis, MAO inhibitors.

2. Dopamine Agonists (Pramipexole, Ropinirole)

Mechanism:

Stimulate dopamine receptors directly.

Dose:

Pramipexole 0.125 mg three times daily (gradual increase).

Side Effects:

Sleepiness, hallucinations, impulse control disorders.

Contraindications:

Psychiatric illness, hypotension.

3. MAO-B Inhibitors (Selegiline, Rasagiline)

Mechanism:

Inhibit dopamine breakdown enzyme MAO-B.

Dose:

Selegiline 5 mg twice daily (morning preferred).

Side Effects:

Insomnia, headache.

Contraindications:

SSRIs (risk of serotonin syndrome).

4. COMT Inhibitors (Entacapone)

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