Parkinsons

Question 1

Carbidopa

Answer 1

Carbidopa inhibits an enzyme that breaks down levodopa before it reaches the brain.

Question 2

Levodopa

Answer 2

Levodopa is the precursor of DA. It is converted to DA in the brain.

Question 3

Levodopa with carbidopa (Sinemet)

Answer 3

Increases the supply of DA. Do not give levodopa with food because protein reduces absorption.

Question 4

Pramipexole (Mirapex)
Ropinirole (Requip)

Answer 4

DA Receptor Agonists

-May be used alone or in combination with Sinemet

-Directly stimulate dopamine receptors and mimic endogenous DA.

-SE: Hypotension, drowsiness, extrapyramidal reactions, nausea, dyskinesia

Question 5

name the three types of surgical therapy for Parkinson’s

Answer 5

Deep brain stimulation
Reduces increased neuronal activity due to DA depletion

Ablation
Destroys brain tissue that produces abnormal chemical or electrical impulses

Transplantation of fetal neural tissue into the basal ganglia
To provide DA-producing cells