Antiparkinsons meds

Question 0

Antocholinergic agent

Answer 0

• Prototype drug: benztropine mesylate (Cogentin)
• Mechanism of action: block acetylcholine; inhibit overactivity in brain
• Primary use: in early stages of disease
• Adverse effects: dry mouth, blurred vision, photophobia, urinary retention, constipation, tachycardia, glaucoma

Question 1

Dopaminergic

Answer 1

• Prototype drug: levodopa (Larodopa)
• Mechanism of action: Increases biosynthesis of dopamine within nerve terminals
• Primary use: to restore dopamine function or stimulate dopamine receptors within the brain
• Adverse effects: dizziness, light-headedness, sleep dysfunction, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, constipation, orthostatic hypertension, dystonia, dyskinesia

Effectiveness boosted by combining with carbidopa (Sinemet)