HOW DO DOPAMINE AGONISTS WORK?
Dopamine agonists are a class of drugs used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. They mimic the action of naturally occurring dopamine.
The direct cause of Parkinson's disease or Parkinsonian-like syndrome is the deficiency of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain. Antiparkinson medicines aim to prolong the action of dopamine in the brain by:
Replacing dopamine
Inhibiting dopamine breakdown
Sensitizing dopamine receptors to stimulate dopamine release
Dopamine agonists bind to the dopamine receptors to release more dopamine in the brain.
HOW ARE DOPAMINE AGONISTS USED?
Dopamine agonists can be added to levodopa for the initial treatment of Parkinson's disease. However, these agents cannot be used to treat the disease in the advanced stages.
WHAT ARE SIDE EFFECTS OF DOPAMINE AGONISTS?
Dopamine agonists, when taken orally, can cause the following side effects:
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea
- Leg swelling and discoloration
- Confusion
- Sleep attacks
- Compulsive behavior
- Hallucinations
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Falls
- Urinary tract infection
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Headache
- Depression
- Blurred vision
- Cough
- Cataract
- Gait disturbance
- Joint swelling
- Muscle spasms
- Nervousness
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.
From
https://www.parkinson.org/Understanding-Parkinsons/Treatment/Prescription-Medications/COMT-Inhibitors