Istradefylline is effective for the treatment of mood disorders in patients with Parkinson´s disease

This study investigated the effectiveness of istradefylline in the treatment of mood disorders in patients with Parkinson´s disease. Researchers suggested that this drug was an effective treatment option to treat mood disorders in these patients.

Parkinson´s disease is a chronic disorder that affects brain cells. The symptoms can go from physical effects such as tremors and muscle rigidity to mental effects such as depression or anxiety. Depression is the most common mental complication. The main characteristics of these patients is a loss of interest/pleasure, called apathy. Apathy can cancel the improvements when treating physical symptoms. Moreover, depression also affects the quality of life of these patients.

Istradefylline (IST) has been used to treat physical symptoms of patients with Parkinson´s disease. Prior studies showed that this drug has a potential effect on mental symptoms. However, it is not clear if this drug would have the same effect in patients with Parkinson´s disease.

This study included information about 30 patients with Parkinson’s disease. All patients received initially 20 mg of IST. The dose was increased to 40 mg after 4 weeks of treatment. Patients were followed-up every 2 to 4 weeks until 12 weeks of treatment. Questionnaires evaluating mental and physical symptoms were filled at every visit.

Apathy was significantly improved over time in these patients. By 12 weeks, there was a 50% lower score in depressive symptoms. Physical symptoms also showed significant improvements. The effectiveness of IST treating apathy was not associated with improvements of the physical symptoms.

This study concluded that istradefylline is a safe option of treatment for mood disorders in patients with Parkinson’s disease.

This study had a limited number of patients since a significant number dropped out. Larger studies are needed to determine the long-term safety and effectiveness of this drug.

If you are worried about mood disorders, ask your doctor if you are eligible for IST treatment.