What it means
Parkinson diseasePAR-kin-sun dih-ZEEZA slowly worsening brain disease in which the nerve cells that help control movement die off.Full entry comes from a loss of dopamineDOH-puh-meenA natural brain chemical, also given as an IV drug that raises blood pressure and makes the heart pump harder.Full entry in the brain. Dopamine itself cannot get into the brain, but levodopa can, and the brain converts it. It is almost always given with carbidopa (as in Sinemet or Rytary), which keeps it from being broken down in the rest of the body, so less is needed and there is less nausea. Side effects include nausea, dizziness on standing, extra involuntary movements (dyskinesia), hallucinations, and "wearing off" between doses. An inhaled form treats sudden "off" periods.
For the nurse
Give doses on time, since late doses can bring back stiffness and freezing. A high-protein meal can lower absorption, so the client may space protein through the day. Teach the client to rise slowly, that urine and sweat may darken, and never to stop it suddenly.
At a glance
| Drug class | antiparkinson agent (dopamine precursor) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Inbrija (inhaled); with carbidopa: Sinemet, Rytary |
| Spanish | levodopa |
| Also written | Inbrija |
Related terms
Parkinson disease
A slowly worsening brain disease in which the nerve cells that help control movement die off.
dopamine
A natural brain chemical, also given as an IV drug that raises blood pressure and makes the heart pump harder.
amantadine
A drug used for Parkinson disease and its movement side effects, first made as an antiviral for influenza.
ropinirole
A drug that acts like dopamine in the brain, used for Parkinson disease and for restless legs syndrome.