Motor and non-motor symptoms are hallmarks of Parkinson's disease (PD), a chronic, progressive neurodegenerative illness caused by the decline of dopamine-producing neurones in the substantia nigra. Although the exact cause is still unknown, environmental variables like pesticide exposure and genetic alterations (such as SNCA, LRRK2, and PARK7) are involved in its development. Tremors, bradykinesia, stiffness, and postural instability are the hallmark motor symptoms that are caused by a dopamine deficit in the basal ganglia. Quality of life is impacted by non-motor symptoms such as mood problems, sleep disruptions, and cognitive deterioration. By restoring dopamine levels in the brain, Levodopa efficiently treats motor symptoms and is still the gold standard for treating Parkinson's disease. When combined with carbidopa to increase delivery and reduce side effects, Levodopa dramatically enhances motor function, particularly in the early and middle stages of the disease. However, problems, including dyskinesia and motor irregularities, are linked to prolonged use. Another treatment option is provided by dopamine agonists, which directly activate dopamine receptors, especially in younger or early-stage PD patients. They reduce the risk of early dyskinesia by delaying Levodopa and providing long-lasting symptom alleviation, although less effective than Levodopa. They do, however, have an increased risk of behavioural and cognitive adverse effects, including impulse control issues and hallucinations. Combination therapy maximises symptom management by utilising the advantages of both levodopa and dopamine agonists, but it necessitates close observation. Treatment plans must change as PD worsens to strike a balance between effectiveness and adverse effects. Future studies on sophisticated medication regimens and neuroprotective therapies have the potential to improve long-term results in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
Research Article
Open Access