An example of an advanced medical therapy for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease is an infusion called Duodopa (a levodopa and carbidopa combination).
Parkinson’s disease occurs when the part of the brain that produces a chemical messenger called ‘dopamine’ deteriorates. This can cause symptoms like stiffness, involuntary shaking (tremor) and slow movements.
Although there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, medicines can improve symptoms by increasing the amount of dopamine in the brain. Initially, the benefits of these medicines will last throughout the day, however over time their effects can start to wear off more quickly.
Duodopa provides a constant flow of medicine through the day. It allows symptoms to remain consistently well controlled and reduces the number of tablets that need to be taken.
Advanced medical therapies are also used in people who develop involuntary movements called dyskinesias. These patients can benefit from having a steady flow of medicine that is spread out over a long period of time.