Parkinson's Disease Support Group

Parkinson's Disease Treatment



There is no specific cure for Parkinson's Disease. Drug therapy, physical therapy for mobility problems, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and surgery (in severe cases) may help relieve symptoms and assist the patient in maintaining independence as long as possible. Drugs, such as amantadine, anticholinergic agents, and levodopa/carbidopa may be prescribed, but are, unfortunately, associated with serious side effects.





Supplements helpful for Parkinson's Disease



Antioxidants (Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Grape seed extract)

Vitamin C and vitamin E are potent antioxidants that may help protect against the progression of Parkinson's disease. Grape seed extract contains a bioflavonoid antioxidant, proanthocyanidins (PCO), which may help protect against free radical damage and enhance the absorption percentage of vitamin C. [2] A pilot study has shown that when patients with early Parkinson's disease were given high doses of vitamins C and E, the need for drug therapy was significantly delayed. [3, 4]



Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant that boosts cellular energy production in the mitochondria, the cell's energy powerhouse. CoQ10 is often low in Parkinson's disease patients. [5, 6] Studies have reported that supplementation with CoQ10 improves symptoms and assists in slowing the progression of the disease. [7, 8]



Vitamin B6 and Zinc

Vitamin B6 and its cofactor zinc, are essential for manufacturing dopamine. Supplementation with both vitamin B6 and zinc may stimulate dopamine production and improve Parkinson's disease symptoms. [9] However, because scientific study has reported a possible interaction with B5 and certain Parkinson's disease drugs, Parkinson's disease patients should take vitamin B6 under the supervision of a health care professional. [10]



Amino acids (Tyrosine and Phenylalanine)

The amino acids, tyrosine and phenylalanine, are essential for the synthesis of dopamine in the brain. Studies suggest that supplementation with tyrosine may be beneficial for Parkinson's disease patients. [11, 12]



Gingko biloba

Gingko biloba, a botanical used for centuries in herbal medicine, has been shown to improve circulation and counteract age-related vascular disorders, as well as dementia. Numerous studies have found that the dietary supplementation with gingko can help protect against the effects of brain aging, enhance cognitive function, memory, and blood flow to the brain. Because of these potential benefits, gingko may be helpful in treating Parkinson's disease. [13-16]



Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH)

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH), found in all living cells, boosts energy needed for cell functions and DNA repair. NADH increases synthesis of dopamine and may be beneficial for Parkinson's disease patients. One study reported that when patients with early Parkinson's disease were given NADH, symptoms were improved. [17]



Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)

DHEA is a natural steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and helps to maintain the healthy functioning of the immune system. DHEA supplementation can help protect against the effects of brain aging, enhance cognitive function, mood, memory, and may be equally effective in treating Parkinson's disease. [18-20] DHEA is contraindicated in both men and women with hormone-related cancers. Parkinson's disease patients supplementing with DHEA should be monitored by their physician.



Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC)

Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC) is a nutritional supplement with similar properties to the brain neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. One significant study reported that when older rats were fed ALC, age-associated cognitive impairment and mitochondrial decay in the brain was reversed. [21] ALC supplementation may enhance brain function and memory, and may provide for a legitimate treatment option for persons suffering from Parkinson's disease. [22]



Phosphatidylserine (PS)

Phosphatidylserine (PS), an essential component of brain cell membranes, enhances brain cell energy metabolism. Supplementation with PS has been shown to improve cognitive function and memory, protect brain cells against functional deterioration, and may be effective supplement in the treatment Parkinson's disease. [23, 24]





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Introduction to Parkinson's Disease

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Posted on 11/10/07, 01:11 pm