Long-term experience with bromocriptine in advanced parkinsonism. Results after one year's treatment.

Abstract

The long-term effects of bromocriptine as an adjuvant were investigated in 32 patients (20 male, 12 female), aged 43-76 years (mean 65.4), suffering from parkinsonism for 3-20 years (mean 9.3). Patients were pretreated with levodopa/decarboxylase inhibitor for 24-116 months (mean 74.9). Bromocriptine was given because of a decline in the response to levodopa, various kinds of "on-off" phenomena, and disabling dyskinesias. Levodopa was reduced by 18%, while bromocriptine was added with a mean dose of 29 mg. The results showed a marked tremor and rigidity response, clearly greater than that of bradykinesia of the hands. The improvement after 4 weeks of bromocriptine treatment was maintained over 12 months. Only gait disturbances tended to increase. At the same time the self-ratings of the patients showed an increase in disability as far as daily activities were concerned. Likewise, the "on-off" symptoms with regard to the wearing-off effects worsened in comparison with the condition during the 4-week period. Akinesia paradoxica was never definitely influenced. An increase in dyskinesias was avoided and serious side-effects could be kept under control.

• Authors: E Schneider, P A Fischer
• Journal: Journal of neurology (J Neurol) Vol. 228 Issue 4 Pg. 249-58 ( 1982) ISSN: 0340-5354 [Print] Germany
• PMID: 6188812 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Bromocriptine
• Levodopa

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• Bromocriptine (administration & dosage, adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Drug Therapy, Combination
• Female
• Humans
• Levodopa (therapeutic use)
• Long-Term Care
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Parkinson Disease (drug therapy)