Parkinson's Disease Support Group

Parkinson's disease is a movement disorder often characterized by muscle rigidity, tremor, a slowing of physical movement, and in extreme cases, a loss of physical movement. The primary symptoms of Parkinsons are due to excessive muscle contraction, normally caused by the insufficient formation and action of dopamine, which is produced in the dopaminergic neurons of the...

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levodopa-induced dyskinesias

dannycruise007
dannycruise007

Hi, recently been diagnosed with Parkinson's at 50. Moving a bit slow and getting pain particularly in legs. Also tired a lot.


Specialist wants to put me on a low dose Levodopa but I'm terrified about developing  dyskinesia. Not sure it's worth taking Levodopa (since it only works for a couple of years) unless I have to. Any advice is appreciated.


Cheers

CDS2
CDS2
Hi - I too was recently diagnosed with PD. I've been on a low dose of Levodopa for only a few weeks. It has been very effective very quickly - my balance is already better and the fatigue has subsided. For me, it's way worth it to take.

I'm also exercising everyday including a boxing class 3X per week specifically taught for PD patients. This also has been great - see if there's one in your area!
pdandme
pdandme
I was diagnosed with earl stage PD in May 2018. From what I've learned so far, opinions are divided about starting Levodopa earlier vs later. I decided to hold off taking Levodopa until whenever symptoms worsened. So far I've been able to keep symptoms manageable (or should I say tolerable) with vigorous exercise (swimming, hiking, cycling) and LVST intensive PT and speech therapy through my local hospital network (very helpful)
I decided to hold off bc I can tolerate my symptoms for the time being. They are mild. Tremors decreased substantially when i recently retired from my work (I'm 68) So I think minimizing stress is very important as is finding a really good, pro active movement disorder neurologist who addresses and supports your concerns.
Cent20
Cent20
Hello,

I take Carbidopa/Levodopa.

I'm actually not sure what benefit I receive from this because I don't have a real good comparison.

I still have some mild memory issues and tremors.

As far as I understand it, it is a Dopamine medication because Parkinson is a Dopamine chemical; neurological progressive disease.

Besides the Levidopa; Xadago is a newer medication.
I have not been on Xadago and the Neurologist I have, doesn't have experience with the Xadago, medication.

Since as you've said, the Levidopa can only be taken for a couple of years, before, as is said, tardive dyskinesia sets in; I'm not sure what to do.

I'm not sure; to take Levidopa or not, take Levidopa...

I guess when it's to be taken when it is getting serious, would be the option (choice) at that time.

If you try Xadago and it's benefits can be seen; please post it.

Thank you.
GGINTO
GGINTO
Hey I've been diagnosed at 53 and have a shaky left hand- it seems to get worse with Levodopa.. but neurologist said it's supposed to ease it.. I also worry about Dyskinesia but he said he doubted it would happen especially because I'm younger. Also Levodopa is supposed to work for many years.. neurologist said many of his patients live long lives and manage the symptoms well, and that Exercise is one of the most important daily things to do. I'm taking lots of natural stuff as well.