Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease and Drug-Induced Parkinsonism
Idiopathic Parkinson’s disease accounts for 85 percent of Parkinson’s cases, making it the most common form. The term “idiopathic” means that the cause of the condition is unknown. In many cases, it would happen spontaneously. This type of Parkinsonism typically occurs in people between 55 and 65 years old. It rarely affects those who are under 50 years old. Idiopathic Parkinson’s disease develops gradually over time. Common signs include rigidity, slower body movement, stooped posture, tremors, balance problems, walking issues, or slurring speech. [1]
Drug-induced Parkinsonism is a form of secondary Parkinsonism. The symptoms are caused by side effects of some medications, particularly those that affect the levels of dopamine in the body. These include reserpine, tetrabenazine, certain calcium channel blockers, certain anti-nausea drugs, antipsychotics, and certain antidepressants. It can be hard to differentiate drug-induced Parkinsonism from Parkinson’s disease. But in most cases, the instability and tremors would be less severe. The best way to stop drug-induced Parkinsonism is to stop taking the medications that lead to the side effects. It would take up to 1 year to recover fully. [2]
