In a nutshell
This study reviewed the effectiveness of levodopa/carbidopa intestinal gel (LCIG) in the treatment of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Researchers suggested that LCIG is a safe option for the treatment of these patients.
Some background
Parkinson's disease (PD) affects brain cells. These cells control many mental and body functions and once affected they lose their abilities. This causes symptoms such as muscle weakness and tremors.
The standard treatment is levodopa. However, long-term levodopa use is associated with wearing-off symptoms. This happens when the PD symptoms come back (sometimes worse) in between doses. Overtime, levodopa has a shorter duration of action with patients needing higher doses. Combined treatments with carbidopa have been used to maintain more stable levels of levodopa. This combination is available in both tablet and intestinal gel (LCIG) forms. However, the effectiveness of LCIG remains poorly studied.
Methods & findings
This study reviewed other studies with information about patients with PD. These patients received LCIG and were followed-up for 7 years.
LCIG improved wearing-off symptoms at 12 weeks which continued over a period of 7 years. It also improved the activities of daily living and quality of life.
LCIG was well tolerated with side effects associated with aging, advanced disease or treatment procedure. LCIG safety was comparable to oral levodopa/carbidopa.
The bottom line
This study concluded that LCIG is a safe and well-tolerated treatment option for patients with Parkinson's disease.
Published By :
Drugs
Date :
Sep 23, 2019
