Parkinson's disease refers to a neurological disorder that affects the brain and spinal cord, also known as the central nervous system. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that signs of Parkinson's disease include a hand tremor, a loss of balance, difficulty blinking and slow movement. Constipation, a stooped posture, and trouble breathing, speaking or swallowing are additional Parkinson's symptoms. Fortunately, drugs for Parkinson's disease exist.
Carbidopa and Levodopa
Carbidopa and levodopa, commonly sold as Sinemet, is a combination drug used to manage symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Drugs.com says that its less-concerning side effects include dry mouth, nausea, muscle pain and a skin rash. Additional less-concerning side effects include blurry vision and a cough. Its serious side effects include confusion, hallucinations, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and difficult urination. Notify a physician when these side effects develop. Carbidopa and levodopa is a tablet taken daily or as prescribed.
Selegiline
Selegiline, commonly sold as Eldepryl or Zelapar, is a medication that prevents dopamine from being broken down. Reduced amounts of dopamine lead to Parkinson's disease. Its less serious side effects include back pain, constipation, trouble sleeping and a runny or stuffy nose. In some instances, selegiline also leads to mouth sores and pain with swallowing. Its serious side effects include fainting, hallucinations, confusion, a severe headache, agitation and difficult urination. Phone a physician when selegiline leads to these effects. Selegiline is a tablet taken daily or as indicated.
Amantadine
Amantadine, commonly sold as Symmetrel, also treats Parkinson's disease. The way it works in the body to manage Parkinson's is unclear. MedlinePlus says that its less-concerning side effects include fainting, trouble sleeping, dizziness, lightheadedness and blurry vision. Its serious effects include shortness of breath, a rash, depression and difficulty urinating. Notify a doctor when these effects develop. Amantadine is a tablet taken daily or as prescribed.
Entacapone
Entacapone, commonly sold as Comtan, is a medication that inhibits catechol-O-methyltransferase. MedlinePlus says that entacapone is typically used in combination with levodopa and carbidopa because it allows for these medications to reach the brain faster. Its serious side effects include trouble breathing, hallucinations, muscle stiffness and a high fever. Notify a physician when entacapone's effects develop. This medication is a tablet taken up to eight times daily with carbidopa and levodopa.
