Parkinson's Parkinson's Treatment and Medications 2

Question 1

The 'wearing-off' phenomenon in Parkinson's disease refers to:

Accepted Answer

Return of symptoms before the next levodopa dose is due

Answer

Wearing-off occurs when the benefit of a levodopa dose diminishes before the next scheduled dose, causing re-emergence of Parkinson's symptoms.

Question 2

Which COMT inhibitor is used as an adjunct to levodopa/carbidopa to extend the duration of each dose?

Accepted Answer

Entacapone (Comtan)

Answer

Entacapone inhibits COMT, an enzyme that breaks down levodopa, thereby extending the duration of each levodopa dose and reducing wearing-off.

Question 3

Impulse control disorders (gambling, hypersexuality, compulsive eating) in Parkinson's patients are most commonly associated with which medication class?

Accepted Answer

Dopamine agonists

Answer

Dopamine agonists are strongly associated with impulse control disorders in Parkinson's patients due to their direct stimulation of mesolimbic dopamine pathways.

Question 4

What is the primary target of deep brain stimulation (DBS) most commonly used for Parkinson's disease in the US?

Accepted Answer

Subthalamic nucleus (STN)

Answer

The subthalamic nucleus (STN) is the most commonly targeted brain region for DBS in Parkinson's disease, though the globus pallidus interna (GPi) is also used.

Question 5

Which route of administration is used for apomorphine rescue therapy in Parkinson's disease?

Accepted Answer

Subcutaneous injection

Answer

Apomorphine is administered as a subcutaneous injection for rapid rescue therapy during off episodes in Parkinson's disease.

Parkinson's Practice Test

Parkinson's Practice Test

Parkinson's Parkinson's Treatment and Medications 2