Health encyclopaedia

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Treatment of Parkinson's disease

At present there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but there are a range of treatments available to help control the symptoms and maintain quality of life.    Drugs are the main treatment.   There are several types available which either increase the level of dopamine that reaches the brain, stimulate the parts of the brain where dopamine works, or block the action of other chemicals that affect dopamine.   The drugs may be used on their own or in combination.   They have to be prescribed to suit individual needs, in terms of type of drug prescribed, dose and times of the day taken.    Regular reviews are needed as Parkinson’s disease progresses and needs change.  

Surgical techniques are also sometimes used to treat people who have had Parkinson’s disease for many years, but these are not suitable for everyone.

Therapies such as physiotherapy, speech and language therapy and occupational therapy and self-help strategies can also play an important role in the management of Parkinson’s disease.

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