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Neuroprotective therapy in Parkinson's disease and motor complications: A search for a pathogenesis‐targeted, disease‐modifying strategy
Author(s) -
Olanow C. Warren,
Jankovic Joseph
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
movement disorders
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.352
H-Index - 198
eISSN - 1531-8257
pISSN - 0885-3185
DOI - 10.1002/mds.20457
Subject(s) - levodopa , medicine , disease , neuroprotection , parkinson's disease , clinical trial , adverse effect , motor symptoms , degenerative disease , neuroscience , physical medicine and rehabilitation , intensive care medicine , psychology , pathology
The introduction of levodopa in the late 1960s represented a landmark in the therapy of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, motor complications of chronic levodopa therapy have emerged as a major limitation of this otherwise effective therapy. Advancing medical and surgical treatment of these complications has been the main objective of clinical trials during the past few decades. In addition, basic research has focused on better understanding of the mechanisms of motor complications and how to prevent them. Slowing or delaying the progression of the disease delays the need for levodopa therapy; therefore, neuroprotective strategies may play an important role in preventing the onset and reducing the severity of levodopa‐related adverse effects. In this introductory review, we present the rationale for current and experimental therapies designed to favorably modify the progression of PD. If implemented early in the course of the disease, such treatments, if found effective, may not only alter the natural progression of the disease but may also delay or minimize motor and nonmotor complications associated with levodopa. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society