Parkinsonism & Parkinson’s Disease

Description

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterised by tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia, arising from the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. Levodopa remains the cornerstone of therapy, though long-term use is associated with complications such as motor fluctuations and dyskinesias. This CPD activity equips pharmacists to optimise early treatment, manage common adverse effects, and recognise late-stage challenges including psychosis, falls, and non-motor symptoms. Emphasis is placed on the pharmacist’s role in counselling, monitoring for drug interactions, and supporting a multidisciplinary approach to care, ultimately improving quality of life for patients and their carers.

Learning Objectives

After completing this activity, pharmacists should be able to:

• distinguish between tremor, Parkinsonism and Parkinson’s disease (PD);
• recognise the symptoms of PD;
• identify the various medications that may induce or exacerbate PD symptoms;
• describe the pharmacological treatments for PD;
• determine interactions between anti-Parkinson’s medications and other medications;
• counsel patients with PD about their medications.

Expires 31st December 2025