Motor issues are a common symptom of Parkinson's disease, as well as being a side-effect of some of the long-term treatments for the neurodegenerative disease (Image: Getty) Researchers investigating the effects of a common Parkinson's disease medication believe they may have discovered the brain mechanism that triggers some of its worst side effects, including twitching and other involuntary movements. This discovery brings hope that long-term treatment for this debilitating illness could become more manageable for patients. Dyskinesia is a frequent side effect experienced by Parkinson's patients who are administered a dopamine-enhancing drug called levodopa, often a significant component of treatment for the incurable disease affecting over 150,000 Brits.
This side effect induces uncontrollable shaking and tremors, one of the most visible indications that someone is undergoing treatment for the neurodegenerative disease. Researchers from the University of Alabama observed that the brain forms a "bad motor memory" in response to the drug, as many patients who cease taking it also see their twitches and tremors stop, but witness the symptoms reappear when they recommence the medication. The findings, published in the Journal of Neuroscience, provide hope to patients and their families that one of Parkinson's challenging impacts could be counteracted with another drug.
Alabama's own Karen Jaunarajs, PhD, has shed light on groundbreaking research that could revolutionise treatm.
