Chapter 24 Pharm

imbalance between dopamine and acetylcholine (ACh)
no cure for motor symptoms
progressive disease
dyskinesias -> tremor at rest, bradykinesia (slowed movement)

goal is to improve the patient's ability to carry out ADLs

Dopaminergic agents -> most commonly used
Anticholinergic agents prevent activation of cholinergic receptors

higly effective
dopaminergic
adverse effect: dyskinesias, nausea, vomiting, postural hypotension, psychosis, visual hallucinations, behavioral changes
always combined with carbidopa
PO
taking with food can help stop GI upset but causes delays in absorption, spread out high protein bc can reduce response of levodopa
can gradually "wear off" as you take it

reduces symptoms by increased dopamine synthesis
levodopa is converted into dopamine

most effective therapy for PD
prevents nausea and vomiting

first-line drugs for mild to moderate symptoms of PD
less effective than levodopa

Class: anticholinergic
Use: Parkinson's tremor and rigidity
Adverse:
Nursing Implication: avoid in the elderly

90% of patients develop nonmotor symptoms
depression - Amitriptyline, only effective drug