In a nutshell
This study investigated the effectiveness of rotigotine (Neupro) transdermal patch (RTP) to treat mental symptoms in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Researchers suggested that RTP significantly improved mental symptoms in these patients.
Some background
Parkinson’s disease is a chronic disorder that affects the brain cells causing physical and mental symptoms. The mental symptoms can go from anxiety and sleep disorder to depression. These significantly affect the quality of life of these patients.
Dopamine receptor agonists such as rotigotine play an important role in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Prior studies showed that it could also have a role in treating depression. Rotigotine transdermal patch (RTP) is an adhesive patch. When placed on the skin it delivers the drug for 24 hours. It is important to research the effectiveness of RTP in treating mental symptoms in patients with Parkinson’s disease.
Methods & findings
This study reviewed 8 other studies on the effectiveness of RTP in patients with Parkinson's disease with mental symptoms. Overall, information about 1675 patients was analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups, one group was treated with RTP and the other with a placebo (control group). Mental symptoms were evaluated through questionnaires.
Compared to the control group, patients who received the RTP had improved emotion scores, including depression and anxiety. Improvements were seen also in fatigue and sleep disturbance in the RTP group. Overall, the RTP group showed an improved quality of life compared to the control group.
The bottom line
This study concluded that RTP is an effective option to treat mental symptoms in patients with Parkinson’s disease.
The fine print
A limited number of studies were reviewed. Also, the study did not evaluate side effects.
Published By :
Journal of the neurological sciences
Date :
Aug 15, 2018
