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Levodopa and parkinsonism: Clinical impressions
Author(s) -
Yahr Melvin D.
Publication year - 1971
Publication title -
clinical pharmacology and therapeutics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.941
H-Index - 188
eISSN - 1532-6535
pISSN - 0009-9236
DOI - 10.1002/cpt1971122part2332
Subject(s) - discontinuation , levodopa , parkinsonism , adverse effect , medicine , intensive care medicine , autopsy , drug , drug reaction , surgery , pharmacology , disease , parkinson's disease
Data are presented in support of establishing levodopa as the most efficacious pharmacologic agent available for the treatment of parkinsonism at the present time. Most of its side reactions are generally of a tolerable nature. Involuntary dyskinetic movements following longterm therapy are, however, often intolerable. One such case history of self‐imposed discontinuation of the drug is presented, and the effects of reinstitution of therapy with appropriate dose adjustment are described. Autopsy material obtained in 4 patients indicates no adverse reactions in any vital organs. Further study, however, is essential to determine its long‐term effects, both benefiCial and adverse. It is urged that those involved in the continuing collaborative study exert efforts to obtain pathologic material whenever it becomes available for such study.