Mental Health

Medication-related Parkinsons 01/31/2010

Question:

Hi ive been on abilfy for 8 years my nuro doctor and pychcitriatric both say i have medacation realated parkinsons with severe symptoms of tremors mucle rigidy and slow walking im terrified of going off my anti pychotic med (I have bi polar) my pyciatrist wants to let it be since im doing well on meds my nuro is concerned for my medical health and wants me of my meds NO! isnt there a better way?

Answer:

Although it is difficult without details of your case, there are some alternatives. Modest dose adjustments might maintain your wellness while decreasing side effects. At times, the addition of medication for the tremors can be helpful without effecting your mood. 

Alternatively, the addition of other medication for your mood may allow for lowering the dose of Abilify. Ask your psychiatrist about these alternatives.

For more information:

• Read articles on this topic
• Browse the previously asked questions

Response by:

Nicholas A Votolato, RPh BCPP Introductory Clinicxal Psychopharamcology Advanced Clinical Psychopharmacology Clinical Pharmacokinetics Clinical Therapetics College of Medicine The Ohio State University