Medication

Medication is the primary treatment for managing the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s, helping to restore or mimic dopamine in the brain. However, the right medication and dose will vary depending on the individual’s age, symptoms and how the disease progresses.

Common Parkinson’s medications include:

• Levodopa (combined with carbidopa or benserazide): the most effective and widely used drug for improving movement symptoms by converting to dopamine in the brain.
• Dopamine agonists (e.g. ropinirole, pramipexole): mimic dopamine’s effects and may be used alone in early stages or with levodopa in later stages.
• MAO-B inhibitors (e.g. selegiline, rasagiline): prevent dopamine breakdown in the brain.
• COMT inhibitors (e.g. entacapone): help prolong the effect of levodopa.

As the condition progresses, medication regimens often require adjustment to maintain symptom control and minimise side effects, such as involuntary movements (dyskinesia).

Additional Medications

In addition to managing motor symptoms, people with Parkinson’s may also require other medications to address:

• Depression or anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Constipation
• Cognitive changes or hallucinations

These medications are often prescribed alongside motor symptom treatments to improve overall quality of life.