Effective Treatment Strategies for Motor and Nonmotor Symptoms of Parkinson Disease

Although levodopa is an effective medication for the treatment of Parkinson disease, physicians and patients face significant management challenges related to disease progression. Patients typically develop fluctuations in motor symptoms and dyskinesias. Novel treatment options may help clinicians more effectively manage patients' symptoms by extending the duration of response to medication, with improved tolerance. For many patients, nonmotor symptoms impact daily activities more than motor symptoms do. Many pharmacotherapeutic strategies are approved to address motor and nonmotor symptoms and fluctuations. A clear understanding of the advantages and potential adverse effects of each therapy can help clinicians individualize the choice and timing of medications to optimize patient response and hopefully improve quality of life.