Treatment – Parkinson Canada

The main treatment for Parkinsons is drug therapy. Surgical techniques are also available for some people.

Drug therapy

The decision to take medication depends on the individual and on a variety of factors such as

Consult your doctor to help choose the medication that will best suit your individual situation. See info sheet: Parkinson's Medications...What you need to know!(PDF)

The purpose of drug therapy is to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Drugs will not stop the progression of the disease. Drugs can help you function on a daily basis; but may cause side effects that need to be managed. Finding the right balance may take time. It is important to contact your doctor to report benefits or problems you may be experiencing. Taking your medication at the right time every day is very important. Parkinson Canada has developed theI have Parkinsons Medication Card(PDF)to help keep track of drugs. For a copy, contact info@parkinson.ca.

Surgical options

Surgical treatment for Parkinsons can be beneficial for some people. Surgery is not a standard treatment for everyone with Parkinsons; but can be considered after drug therapy has been tried. Procedures involve inserting a probe into the brain and targeting specific areas that may control tremor or involuntary movements. Talk with your neurologist to determine whether you might be a candidate for surgery. A comprehensive assessment will need to be done before a decision is made.

Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson Disease: An Expert Consensus and Review of Key Issues.

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Treatment - Parkinson Canada