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Medications are key to treating Parkinson’s. You may be prescribed one or more medications. Be sure you know the names of your medications and when and how to take them. Ask your healthcare provider what side effects you might expect. Also ask if you should avoid eating certain foods or drinking alcohol.
Types of Medications*
Examples
How They Help
Levodopa combined with carbidopa
Sinemet, Sinemet CR
Levodopa replaces missing dopamine. Carbidopa helps levodopa enter the brain with fewer side effects.
Dopamine agonists
Mirapex, Parlodel, Requip, Apokyn
Imitate the way dopamine works in the brain.
MAO-B inhibitors
Eldepryl
Help dopamine work longer.
COMT inhibitors
Comtan, Stalevo (combines Comtan and Sinemet)
Taken with levodopa. Help dopamine enter the brain and work longer.
NMDA antagonists
Symmetrel
Reduce involuntary movements and tremors.
Anticholinergics
Trihexyphenidyl, Cogentin
Reduce tremor and rigidity.
*This chart is not a complete list of Parkinson’s medications. It does not imply endorsement of any type or brand. It does not include all side effects or adverse reactions. It does not include all interactions or precautions for these drugs. Only a doctor can recommend or prescribe these medications.