Nighttime levodopa infusions to treat motor fluctuations in advanced Parkinson's disease: preliminary observations

Ann Neurol. 1991 Oct;30(4):616-7. doi: 10.1002/ana.410300417.

Abstract

We report the clinical response of a parkinsonian patient with severe motor fluctuations who was begun on continuous, nighttime-only levodopa infusions accompanied by oral carbidopa/levodopa use during the day. Sleep disturbances improved immediately. There was a gradual reduction in "off" time and severity of dyskinesias during the waking day. Nighttime-only levodopa infusions have a carryover benefit to the waking hours and may be suitable for long-term therapy to reduce daily motor fluctuations in some patients with Parkinson's disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Humans
  • Infusions, Intravenous
  • Levodopa / administration & dosage
  • Levodopa / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Movement Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Movement Disorders / etiology
  • Parkinson Disease / complications
  • Parkinson Disease / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Levodopa