11.1 Flashcards
(10 cards)
- How is dopamine synthesis exploited to treat Parkinson disease?
L-DOPA, the precursor to dopamine, is administered to boost brain dopamine levels, compensating for the loss of dopaminergic neurons.
- What role do AADC inhibitors play in L-DOPA therapy?
AADC inhibitors (e.g., carbidopa, benserazide) block peripheral conversion of L-DOPA to dopamine, allowing more L-DOPA to cross the blood-brain barrier and reducing side-effects.
- What are some common side-effects associated with L-DOPA treatment?
Side-effects include dyskinesia, motor fluctuations, nausea, orthostatic hypotension, and occasional psychiatric symptoms.
- How do dopamine agonists work in Parkinson’s treatment?
Dopamine agonists (e.g., pramipexole, ropinirole) directly stimulate dopamine receptors, bypassing the need for dopamine synthesis by surviving neurons.
- What is the function of COMT inhibitors in Parkinson therapy?
COMT inhibitors (e.g., entacapone) inhibit the metabolism of L-DOPA, increasing its availability and prolonging its effects in the brain.
- What other pharmacological treatments are used in Parkinson disease?
Additional options include anticholinergics to balance cholinergic overactivity and amantadine, which acts as an NMDA receptor antagonist to reduce dyskinesia.
- What surgical approach is available for advanced Parkinson disease?
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) involves implanting electrodes (commonly in the subthalamic nucleus) to modulate abnormal neural activity and improve motor symptoms.
- What are the challenges in long-term management of Parkinson disease?
Long-term management is challenged by progressive neurodegeneration, emerging motor fluctuations, dyskinesia, non-motor symptoms, and the need for ongoing treatment adjustments.
- How does patient and carer engagement enhance management outcomes in Parkinson disease?
Active participation in decision making, exercise, nutrition, and symptom monitoring helps optimize treatment, improve quality of life, and better manage both motor and non-motor symptoms.
- Why is treatment adjustment necessary over the disease course in Parkinson disease?
As the disease progresses and side-effects emerge, treatment regimens need regular modifications to maintain symptom relief while minimizing adverse effects.
