Posted by Ritch on November 4, 2002, at 21:26:44
In reply to Parkinsons and depression. Need advice, posted by BarbaraCat on November 4, 2002, at 12:35:21
> A friend has severe Parkinson's disease for about 8 years and is on Sinemet. He has been having very severe depressions, crying, excessive worry, paranoia that have been escalating with his disease. His physician had him on the standard retinue of SSRIs which did nothing to alleviate his mental pain. I suggested Wellbutrin ER because of it's dopamine action. I read lately that it appears to halt the progression of the disease, at least in rodents. His wife is reluctant because of his intense anxiety, to which I suggested Klonopin, or a mood stabilizer in conjunction (he also has neuropathy, so Neurontin comes to mind - any WB/Neurontin interactions?) Any suggestions from out there in the field? Any other ideas than Wellbutrin ER, or potential adverse effects with other Parkinson/dopamine enhancing meds? Your input, as always, is appreciated. BarbaraCat
Barb, The Sinemet has depression and paranoid ideation as a common side effect. He probably can't change that med regime. WB tends to aggravate agitation in many folks that are already suffering problems with that. I did read some stuff recently about GABAergic meds being helpful for Parkinson's. Perhaps his neurologist might consider Klonopin+Neurontin?
poster:Ritch
thread:126410
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021101/msgs/126457.html