Case study 4- 1.1

Question 1

What is parkinsons disease?

Answer 1

A neurodegenerative condition where parts of the brain become progressively damaged over time

• Involves death of dopamine containing cells
• leads to reduced dopamine levels

Question 2

What are the motor symptoms of parkinsons disease?

Answer 2

Slowness of movement- bradykinesia
Resting tremor- disappears when active
Stiffness
Issues with balance and stability when standing

Question 3

What are the non-motor symptoms of parkinsons disease?

Answer 3

1. sleep disorders
2. autonomic disturbances
   - constipation
   - sexual dysfunction
   - Unintentional urination
   - Orthostatic hypotension
3. Psychological symptoms
   - psychosis
   - depression
   - dementia
   - anxiety

Question 4

What is orthostatic hyportention?

Answer 4

hypotention/ reduced blood pressure that occurs when standing after sitting or lying down

Question 5

What are the risk factors of parkinsons disease?

Answer 5

Age- 80+
Gender- more males get it than females
Ethnicity- Hispanic
Family history increases risk
Genetics can also play a part

Question 6

what is a dopamine agonist such as ropinirole used for?

Answer 6

Control resting leg syndrome

Question 7

How does a dopamine agonist work?

Answer 7

Binds to domamine receptors in the post synaptic cleft by mimicking dopamine

This increases neuronal activity

Question 8

True or false
levadopa should be administered alongside carbidopa

Answer 8

true

Question 9

What is the mechanism of carbidopa

Answer 9

• decarboxylase inhibitor
• therefore inhibits the enzyme from breaking down levodopa
• Thus increasing the availability of levodopa
• allowing levodopa to be used at a low dose