European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

A REVIEW ON PARKINSON DISEASE: DRUGS TREATMENT OR MODIFICATIONS AFTER TREATMENT

Dr. Challa Srilekha*, Dr. Safi Almas

ABSTRACT

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a gradual neurodegenerative disorder, which is marked by the depletion of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. This leads to the emergence of the motor and non-motor symptoms that greatly disrupt the patient's quality of life. The primary treatment consists of dopaminergic replacement therapies such as levodopa, the dopamine agonists, MAO-B inhibitors, and also COMT ones. Yet, the long-term therapy usually progresses to complications such as motor fluctuations, dyskinesias, and wearing-off phenomena, which require therapeutic alterations and support measures. Recent innovations involve the use of protracted-release formulations, continuous infusion systems, and the stimulation of deep brain areas to gain the best control over symptoms and to reduce the side effects. The research that is still unfolding is mainly centered around the neuroprotective strategies, gene therapy, and the development of personalized pharmacological interventions. It is the clinical pharmacists who are at the forefront in treatment optimization, patient education, and managing adverse drug reactions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current pharmacotherapy, the modifications made after treatment, and the future therapeutic trends that are all aimed at improving the clinical outcomes in Parkinson’s disease.

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, Levodopa, Dopamine agonists, MAO-B inhibitors, COMT inhibitors, Dyskinesia, Pharmacotherapy, Treatment modification, Deep brain stimulation, Neuroprotection.