American Parkinson's disease experts have reviewed the most recent research to update treatment guidelines.

There have been some developments in Parkinson's disease treatment - introduction of the neuroprotective drug selegiline, and the launch of a sustained release version of levodopa, for instance. How should doctors be incorporating these advances into their treatment of Parkinson's patients?

The American Academy of Neurology asked a group of Parkinson's experts to update the 1993 treatment guidelines, in the light of new research. Levodopa remains the best drug, they say, for treating the motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease although it is linked with the side effect of abnormal movements. Sustained release levodopa does not appear to offer any benefit over immediate release levodopa. And there is not yet sufficient evidence to recommend the use of selegiline for neuroprotection against Parkinson's. As ever, treatment decisions must be made on an individual basis after discussion between the doctor and patient - and based upon the latest guidelines.

Source

American Academy of Neurology January 8 2002