PARKINSON’S DISEASE Flashcards
What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, caused by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain.
What are the common causes of Parkinson’s disease?
The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is not known, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
What is the prevalence of Parkinson’s disease in society?
Parkinson’s disease is a common neurological disorder, affecting an estimated 1-2% of people over the age of 65.
What are the common signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease?
Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can include tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and difficulty with balance and coordination. Other symptoms can include depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.
What is the first-line treatment for Parkinson’s disease?
Dopamine agonists are the first-line treatment for Parkinson’s disease. Examples of dopamine agonists include pramipexole (Mirapex) and ropinirole (Requip).
How do dopamine agonists work in treating Parkinson’s disease?
Dopamine agonists work by mimicking the action of dopamine in the brain, which can help to improve movement and reduce symptoms.
What is the second-line treatment for Parkinson’s disease when dopamine agonists are not effective or not tolerated?
Levodopa is a second-line treatment for Parkinson’s disease when dopamine agonists are not effective or not tolerated. Levodopa is usually given in combination with a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor (such as carbidopa) to prevent the breakdown of levodopa in the bloodstream.
What are the examples of levodopa/carbidopa combinations used to treat Parkinson’s disease?
Examples of levodopa/carbidopa combinations used to treat Parkinson’s disease include Sinemet and Stalevo.
When are monoamine oxidase-B inhibitors used to treat Parkinson’s disease?
Monoamine oxidase-B inhibitors are used to treat Parkinson’s disease when levodopa is not effective or not tolerated.
How do monoamine oxidase-B inhibitors work in treating Parkinson’s disease?
Monoamine oxidase-B inhibitors work by blocking the breakdown of dopamine in the brain, which can help to improve movement and reduce symptoms. Examples of monoamine oxidase-B inhibitors include selegiline (Eldepryl) and rasagiline (Azilect).
