This is a reply by Steven Mayer ([log in to unmask]
Subject: benadryl and other sedative anticholinergic
        Benadryl (officially diphenhydramine ) is an antihistaminic,
anti-cholinergic and sedative. These actions are commonly seen together but
not by necessity. Benadryl is the prototype sedative and it is not patent
protected; therefore it is cheap and very widely used. Too widely used. It
has been used for its modest antiparkinson action (25-50 mg, 3xday),
frequently as an adjunct to dopa. The sedation and mental confusion are
especially noted in the elderly. It is an anticholinergic effect. This
ewffect, and the other anticholinergic responses to benadryl all have
adverse actions. Therefore comes its bad reputation for side efects on
elderly PD patients.
        Lorazepam, a benziodiazepene is safer and has fewer side effects.
It requires a prescription, but that is a good thing, You can buy benadryl
by the quart without a prescription


>       Steven Mayer
>  LET
>     THE BUYER BEWARE~~ (2)
>  2. Rediscovering *me*
>  3. caffeine,Enderal,Valium??? (5)
>  4. Benedryl?
>  5. <No subject given>
>  6. Parkinson's Disease on the Web (3)
>  7. Constipation (2)
>  8. CareGivers' List
>  9. Pre-Existing Condition
> 10. [log in to unmask] \ New member and pallidotomy
> 11. Current Science Reviews (2)
> 12. (Fwd) (Fwd) channel log
> 13. Important Udall Bill Info
> 14. UDALL BOMB SHELL
>
>----------------------------------------------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 00:37:16 -0400
>From:    "Ralph G. Herbst" <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: Alzheimer's & Parkinson's Disease Diagnostic and Treatment Center
>         LET THE BUYER BEWARE~~
>
>        At 08:11 PM 5/30/96 -0400, you wrote:
>>Anybody
>>I found a curious WEB page that claims "The Alzheimer's & Parkinson's
>>Disease Diagnostic and Treatment Center offers the first effective
>>treatment for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and
>>Parkinson's disease, memory loss, multiple sclerosis, cerebral vascular
>>accident/stroke, cerebral and cerebellar atrophy, essential tremor
>>& family tremor"
>>
>>Anybody heard of this organization?  Any expierences with it? I found it
>>at http://terra.igcom.net/~aptc/aptc.html#TOP.
>>--
>>Regards
>>Mike
>>
>>Email at [log in to unmask]
>>
>>Mike,,,
>Ever see a tv commercial for something that grows hair on a billard ball?
>I live in Chicago, and this page is by a md. working in Naperville, a
>surburb.   I will hold back here because I do not need a lawsuit!   Please
>e-mail me and   I will go into more details.
>Did you like the before and after photos?  H,mmmmmmmmmmm?   Maybe they
>forgot to include  the relavent medical info. by mistake.   Nuff said.
>Best regards,
>Ralph   ~~   [log in to unmask]  ~~
>ps.  thank you for the welcome to the list, if you ever want to talk meds
>drop me an E-mail.
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Thu, 30 May 1996 21:36:48 -0400
>From:    Doug Gruber <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Rediscovering *me*
>
>I forgot...
>I am not PD. I am just me.
>I am not disabled ,disgusting or unusable.
>I am just *me* hidden just behind the symptoms:
>feeling unable, without gusto, and somewhat use-less.
>It's time to stop and look at *me,*
>the real *me* struggling within, somewhat overwhelmed.
>It's time to stop identifying *me* as the symptoms;
>stop seeing myself only in terms of tremors or drooling;
>stop basing *me* on fingers that don't work right or feet that cramp and
>stumble;
>stop tying my self-image to minute dosages and timing my self-esteem to the
>clock;
>stop, yes STOP burying *me* beneath the symptoms and prescribed antidotes.
>
>It's time to remember the person inside, the little child just beneath:  The
>adult who loves sunsets at the lake, the child who dips toes in the cold
>water, and the adult/child laughing as the dog patiently *rescues* pebbles
>out of the water using her mouth, only to drop them on the slope and watch
>as they slide back in...such a game! I like laying awake and hearing the
>early birds sing morning greetings. I like hearing the kitty cats me-yowling
>and doggies howl-lelujahing for breakfast. I like friends and family coming
>over for the evening, enjoying dinner, bridge (for my spouse and some who
>actually claim to understand the bidding), while the rest of us partake of
>good humored conversation and catch up on life happenings to each.
>
>It's time to unbind my freedom to just be *me* from out the mummy wrappings
>of symptoms and antidotes that seem to have taken over living in my place
>for *me.*  It's time to declare my freedom that it's okay to live openly as
>*me* minus the PD self-image.
>
>Is it your turn to remember and time to declare it's okay to live openly as
>*you* minus the PD self-image???
>
>
>
>
>**************************************************************
>*** Doug & Llyn Gruber  <[log in to unmask]> ***
>***   As they say in "little" Italy, Texas -- Caio, y'all  ***
>**************************************************************
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 01:35:20 -0400
>From:    "<Barbara > <Jensen> <[log in to unmask]>" <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: caffeine,Enderal,Valium???
>
>I am 47, PD diagnosed for 1 year shortly after first symptom: tremor in right
>foot, most intense after running.  Now tremor in foot, leg and sometimes
>right hand.  Coffee and stress seem to make tremor worse.  Anyone out there
>with a similar experience?
>
>Enderal and 5 mg Valium controls tremor more than Sinemet for me right now.
> Anyone know anything about Enderal for PD???
>
>Thank you, [log in to unmask]  Barbara Jensen
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 07:16:00 -0400
>From:    H SPENCE <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Benedryl?
>
>Hi Everyone,
>
>I think I've seen 'Benedryl' referred to several times here as a
>sleeping aid.  Can anyone tell me if I'm right about that and if so,
>could you let me know if it's in any particular form (liquid, tablet
>etc.) or strength. Also, I always thought Benedryl was an anti-histamine
>and have read here recently that anti-histamine's are a no-no
>with PD meds.
>
>Any information you can give me on this would be greatly appreciated
>as Harry is having severe sleeping problems lately along with very
>bad restless leg syndrome. (Perhaps benedryl can help both problems??)
>
>Many thanks in advance for your help.
>
>Helen Spence
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 09:28:05 -0400
>From:    gordon seese <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: caffeine,Enderal,Valium???
>
>A    If Inderal works for you, that's great. Gordon had such a reaction to
>it he figure he would just die first--I remember that one! On top of that
>the so-called Doctor had nothing else to offer--yes, he is still practicing.
>It turned out his Mom had a similar reactiopn and we drove from Montana to
>San Jose, Ca. as she called and said she was dying. Gordon "cured" her as
>soon as he read her new prescription.. So for us Inderal is bad and for
>others it is good. Strange, isn't it?
>        Onto Valium. I discovered drugged, stupified, would have been better
>when a new Doctor put him on that. He was recovereing from an accident. They
>told me they were going to "cure" his tremor. If drugged so you cannot
>remember relatives who drove ten hours to see you means cured??I got him out
>of that place thinking he was dying--really--it was days and days before he
>felt humn again. That was before his PD surgeries
>        Sorry about this--for us these two drugs were so vicious I could not
>helpbutrespond..
>>
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 11:00:50 -0400
>From:    Kathie Tollifson <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: caffeine,Enderal,Valium???
>
>Barbara Jensen writes:
>
>>I am 47, PD diagnosed for 1 year shortly after first symptom: tremor in right
>>foot, most intense after running.  Now tremor in foot, leg and sometimes
>>right hand.  Coffee and stress seem to make tremor worse.  Anyone out there
>>with a similar experience?
>>
>>Enderal and 5 mg Valium controls tremor more than Sinemet for me right now.
>> Anyone know anything about Enderal for PD???
>>
>
>I used Enderal for a while before I was diagnosed at age 43...my doc thought
>I was just the high strung type. Actually it controlled my tremor rather
>well for a short time. Resulted in weight gain :-(   Benefits were short
>lived so I stopped using it, but be very careful if you stop this drug as it
>regulates heart beat and slow detox is imperative.
>
>Eldepryl might control tremor better at your early stage, and have much more
>actual therapeutic benefit for you. Also probably will result in weight loss
>:-) Talk to your neuro about putting you on Eldepryl ASAP.
>
>Kathie Tollifson
>[log in to unmask]
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 11:49:08 -0400
>From:    MRS VIRGINIA CHRISTIANSEN <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: <No subject given>
>
>-- [ From: Virginia Christiansen * EMC.Ver #2.10P ] --
>
>test two of message receipt
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 14:05:27 -0400
>From:    Gaylon Johnson <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: Parkinson's Disease on the Web
>
>Sid Roberts wrote:
>>
>> Just discovered a new site on the Web dealing with Parkinson's Disease
>> that is well done, informative, and worthy of a visit.  It is entitled "A
>> presentation on Parkinson's Disease for families, patients and
>> Rehabilitation Team Members" prepared by Yali Friedman.
>>
>> The url is http://www.grfn.org/~morph.present/park0.htm
>>
>> --------------------
>>   Sid Roberts   66/dx2
>>   [log in to unmask]       Youngstown, Ohio
>
>Hello Sid,
>
>I tried the URL for the web site, but got a "Not Found" response. Would you
>please check to see if it is correct. The site sounds interesting and I'd
>like to see it.
>
>Thanks,
>
>Gaylon <[log in to unmask]>
>--
>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
>                   * On the Suncoast of Florida *
>                     ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
>     "Teamwork divides the effort and multiplies the effect."
>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 11:59:09 -0400
>From:    John Cottingham <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: caffeine,Enderal,Valium???
>
>At 01:35 AM 5/31/96 -0400, you wrote:
>>I am 47, PD diagnosed for 1 year shortly after first symptom: tremor in right
>>foot, most intense after running.  Now tremor in foot, leg and sometimes
>>right hand.  Coffee and stress seem to make tremor worse.  Anyone out there
>>with a similar experience?
>>
>>Enderal and 5 mg Valium controls tremor more than Sinemet for me right now.
>> Anyone know anything about Enderal for PD???
>>
>
>Tremor in absence of rigidity and slowness of movement points to the
>diagnosis of essential tremor instead of PD. In that case, propranolol
>(Inderal) works great for initial treatment in minimizing the tremor.
>Depression can be a side effect of propranolol and later compounded by
>reduced effectiveness of propranolol in controlling the tremor...over time.
>An antidepressant can be indicated in that eventual outcome. Lorazepam can
>be the most cost effective mood elevator in that case.
>
>The simple diagnostic tool you can use yourself to determine if it is
>essential tremor, is take an alcaholic drink before some stressful
>situation. If the tremor is minimized, it is probably essential tremor.
>Taking parkinsonian medications by an essential tremor patient can
>exacerbate the tremor.
>
>Discuss your findings with your neurologist.
>
>John Cottingham    "The parkinsn list brings Knowledge, Comfort, Hope, and
>Homeboy             Friendship to the parkinsonian world."
>LibraryH            Parkinson's Chat on the Undernet 8:30 PM CST -6 Daily.
>                    If you access the Internet through a provider with a
>[log in to unmask]     PPP/SLIP account, free IRC chat software is available. WFD
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 14:04:51 -0400
>From:    Stuart Tatum <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: Constipation
>
>Thanks for the information--this is a lot of help!
>
>I would like to receive your newsletter.
>
>(Sorry if my message went out twice---it didn't look like I sent it to the
>right list at first.)
>
>Take care,
>Nancy
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 13:57:39 -0400
>From:    Stuart Tatum <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Constipation
>
>Hello All,
>
>My father suffers from sever constipation as a result of his PD medication.
>It is an ordeal for him. Every four days, he takes 4 tablespoons of milk of
>magnesia and in the morning after he uses a bisacodyl laxative suppositories
><10 MG each> and still has difficulty.
>
>Does anyone have any recommendations for something that may be easier on his
>system?
>
>Thanks for your help!
>Nancy
>([log in to unmask])
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 13:56:31 -0400
>From:    "Kathrynne Holden, MS, RD" <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: Parkinson's Disease on the Web
>
>G
>> > Just discovered a new site on the Web dealing with Parkinson's Disease
>>
>
>> I tried the URL for the web site, but got a "Not Found" response.
>
>I immediately tried it, too--same results. Would love to access it!
>Best,
>--
>Kathrynne Holden, MS, RD
>Editor-in-Chief,
>"Spotlight on Food--nutrition news for people 60-plus"
>Tel: 970-493-6532   Fax: 970-493-6538
>http://www.fortnet.org/~fivstar
>Contact  Better Business Bureau of the Mountain States,
>< [log in to unmask]>
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 16:33:47 -0400
>From:    Camilla Flintermann <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: CareGivers' List
>
>REPORTING THE CARE LIST ANNOUNCEMENT--IGNORE THE HEADING BELOW--
>  CAMILLA
>----------------------------Original message----------------------------
>Well, I'm working your mailbox overtime, but there were so many
>forwarding of this message I thought I should redo it. Thanks...CHF
>(You know that YOU don't have to keep them, of course.)
>----------------------------Original message----------------------------
>For the benefit of new members of the PD list, this is an update about
>CARE (Caregivers Are Really Essential),the sublist especially for PD caregivers
>  (CGs).  The need for such a list was evident from feelings expressed on the
>PD list that there were times when CGs needed to be able to "let off steam "
>in a place where this would not upset carepartners  (CPs).  Some of us have
>caregiver support groups, where we can safely express feelings, get practical
>support, and share experiences--others do not.  The CARE list serves this need,
> but DOES NOT shut off participation by CGs on the mainlist.We operate through
>a listserv at Miami University, Oxford,Ohio.  This is a closed list, and CGs
>who wish to join may send a request as follows:
>                 [log in to unmask]
>                 SUBscribe CARE (your first and last names)
>
>Instructions will then be sent to you as to how to proceed, when you have
>been added to the list.  List "co-owners" are Jeff Jones and myself.
>Welcome aboard!  Questions? email me or Jeff:
>        Camilla Flintermann <[log in to unmask]>
>        Jeff Jones <[log in to unmask]>
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 12:30:34 -0400
>From:    "Steven E. Mayer" <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: Pre-Existing Condition
>
>Dear Bernie Bessette:
>        I am replying to your request for information from people with PD
>that have been denied disability insurance because of pre=existing PD. I
>have had that experience in a different way. First, my employer until 1992
>was Vanderbilt University. I was diagnosed by neurologists at Vanderbilt
>University Medical Center to have PD in 1991. My insurance contiued in force
>for 18 months. This is standard University policy that was not questioned at
>that time, and the insurance lapsed anyway on my retirement in 1992. Ididn't
>bother to try to renew the additional disability insurance that I had from
>a private insurance company. I knew they would refuse.
>        However, with retirement I became eligible for continued insurance
>with the retirement insurance giant, TIA-CREF, the underwriter of virtually
>all retirement benefits for academicicians. My application, stated that I
>had PD, which TIA-CREF would have found out anyway. They sent me a straight
>forward letter turning down my application. Since I started receiving
>retirement pay coincident with the loss of disability insurance this will
>not be nearly as traumatic as the situation in which you find yourself.  I
>also am 67 years old with independent children and a securely working wife.
>        None of this is of any aid to you. I trust you will be able to make
>the most of your resources. Keep in touch. Good luck.
>        Steven
>        Steven E. Mayer ([log in to unmask]
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>been diagnosed as PD for about 2 years.  The onset came after being exposed
>>to about one year of VERY HIGH STRESS work.  I changed job nine months ago
>>to another small company and much less stress in a rewarding position
>>managing an engineering field office.  That is background information for
>>what comes next.
>>
>>In changing company, I announced to the owners that I had PD and I wanted to
>>make sure that the insurance company would underwrite my coverage.  The
>>company was The Fortis Company, St. Paul MN, and other than the usual 6
>>month waiting period for pre-existing conditions when a new employee is
>>added to an existing policy, all went well.
>>
>>As an austerity move, my new employer recently changed carrier to the
>>Starmark Insurance Co. out of Lake Forest, IL.  In attempting to do the
>>right thing, the HR person informed Starmark that I have a pre-existing
>>condition.  Starmark requested all the doctor's records which amounted to my
>>evaluation visits and a MRI test.  My meds are Sinemet 25/100 and Elderpril
>>5mg 2x daily amounting to $200/months of prescription costs.  I'm 48 years
>>young, exercise two to three times per week and otherwise in excellent
>>health.  I don't see myself as an insurance risk.
>>
>>The new carrier recently wrote a letter to my company benefits person and
>>informed them that they would have to pay $2,000 per month to include me in
>>their policy.  I was totally taken back by this position, let alone at the
>>new risk of losing my job when the company figures out that it will cost
>>them an additional $24,000 per year to keep me around.  I found a good job
>>with a friendly company, but like all businesses, they are in business for
>>profit, not just to keep me in a job.
>>
>>Now the questions:
>>1.      Has anyone had a similar problem with their insurance carrier?
>>2.      Does anyone have any experience with insurance carriers segregating
>>PD patients from the list of those others with pre-existing conditions?
>>3.      Has anyone approached the insurance commissioners in their state
>>with a similar problem, and if so, what was the outcome?
>>4.      Is anyone knowledgeable of what protection may be available from the
>>American Disabilities Act for PD patients?
>>
>>Thank you for putting up with my rambling.  This is a real-time job and
>>security concern for me.  I look forward to hearing what experiences others
>>of you may have had on this subject.
>>
>>God Bless You.
>>
>>
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 17:52:55 -0400
>From:    Craig Proch <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: [log in to unmask] \ New member and pallidotomy
>
>Bob:
>
>I am also a new member of this mailing list.  I have spent the last couple of
>weeks reading and researching PD info for my mom.  My mom's history/symptoms
>sound very similar to yours and the medications that she is taking also sound
>similar (although I am sure if there are others she takes in addition). She
>is older than you and probably more advanced in her symptoms.  She too has
>had PD for a lengthy period of time but has lived with it - and all of the
>ups and downs - and changes from hour to hour and day to day.
>
>My mom has been to Mass General for evalution and continues to wait to hear
>from them.  The first time she went to see the doctors at MGH, they were very
>positive and gave her great hope, but then asked her to come back for
>additional testing.  The second time around, they gave less than a positive
>feeling that my mom was in fact a good candidate for this surgery. I realize
>that doctors must be sure that the procedure is right for the patient and I
>appreciate that,, but on the other hand, they should realize that the mental
>state of many if not all of their patients is very fragile (7-10 days should
>mean 7-10 days or just don't say it).
>
>I write to you because I was wondering if you could shed some light on the
>time frame involved in getting a definite answer from MGH and actually
>scheduling the surgery.  My mom needs some kind of hope as her condition
>continues to deteriorate.  Any info that you could share with me would be
>greatly appeciated.
>
>I wish you all the luck in the world with your surgery and would be very
>interest in hearing from you pre and post surgery.
>
>Again, best of luck and my prayers are with you.
>
>[log in to unmask] (Craig)
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 17:54:54 -0400
>From:    Thomas Barrett <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: Alzheimer's & Parkinson's Disease Diagnostic and Treatment Center
>         LET THE BUYER BEWARE~~
>
>Ralph, What's up with the treatment center in Naperville. I live in Waukegan,
>and I've heard radio ads for the place. What is their treatment approach?
>Tom Barrett ( [log in to unmask] )
>
>----------
>From:   PARKINSN: Parkinson's Disease - Information Exchange Network on behalf
>of Ralph G. Herbst
>Sent:   Thursday, May 30, 1996 11:37 PM
>To:     Multiple recipients of list PARKINSN
>Subject:        Re: Alzheimer's & Parkinson's Disease Diagnostic and Treatment
>       Center   LET THE BUYER BEWARE~~
>
>        At 08:11 PM 5/30/96 -0400, you wrote:
>>Anybody
>>I found a curious WEB page that claims "The Alzheimer's & Parkinson's
>>Disease Diagnostic and Treatment Center offers the first effective
>>treatment for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and
>>Parkinson's disease, memory loss, multiple sclerosis, cerebral vascular
>>accident/stroke, cerebral and cerebellar atrophy, essential tremor
>>& family tremor"
>>
>>Anybody heard of this organization?  Any expierences with it? I found it
>>at http://terra.igcom.net/~aptc/aptc.html#TOP.
>>--
>>Regards
>>Mike
>>
>>Email at [log in to unmask]
>>
>>Mike,,,
>Ever see a tv commercial for something that grows hair on a billard ball?
>I live in Chicago, and this page is by a md. working in Naperville, a
>surburb.   I will hold back here because I do not need a lawsuit!   Please
>e-mail me and   I will go into more details.
>Did you like the before and after photos?  H,mmmmmmmmmmm?   Maybe they
>forgot to include  the relavent medical info. by mistake.   Nuff said.
>Best regards,
>Ralph   ~~   [log in to unmask]  ~~
>ps.  thank you for the welcome to the list, if you ever want to talk meds
>drop me an E-mail.
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 18:04:48 -0400
>From:    "J.R. Bruman" <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Current Science Reviews
>
>Current Science Reviews      by Joe Bruman         (part 3 of 4)
>
>Hely M et al; J Neur Neurosurg Psy 1996:60:531-538:
>Diffuse Lewy body disease (DLBD) looks like PD at first but also
>includes dementia, either at onset or later in progression.
>
>Luft-Johansen M et al; J Neur Neurosurg Psy 1996;60:564-571:
>Fifty thalamotomy subjects had some cognitive impairment compared
>to healthy controls, but the thalamotomy didn't reduce it further.
>
>Pramstaller P, Lees A; J Neur Neurosurg Psy 1996;60:589:
>Patient who developed PD 42 years after childhood encephalitis also
>showed some symptoms of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP).
>
>Damier P et al; Neur 1996;46:1262-1269:
>Although MAO-B may convert MPTP into the toxin MPP, its presence in
>dopaminergic neurons (studied by immunohistochemistry) doesn't
>contribute to vulnerability in PD. Moreover, it might even protect
>against oxidative stress induced by dopamine metabolism.
>
>Morens D et al; Neur 1996;46:1270-1274:
>In 30-yr study of 8006 elderly men, authors found some protection against
>PD from eating legumes (peas, beans) but not from Vitamin E supplements.
>
>Seidler A et al; Neur 1996;46:1275-1284:
>Authors studied 380 rural German PD patients and 379 controls for risks
>of various factors, finding some correlation with pesticides and wood
>preservatives but not with others. They also found significant familial
>connections in the PD group, and inverse correlation with smoking.
>
>Barclay C et al; Neur 1996;1284-1286:
>Authors tried electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in 5 PSP patients and found
>dramatic improvement in one, mild improvement in two, and no improvement
>in two. All five had transient confusion but no permanent side effects.
>
>Tedroff J et al; Neur 1996;46:1430-1436:
>Authors used PET to measure levodopa-induced changes in synaptic dopamine
>in 10 PD patients. They speculate that the levodopa-related complications
>of advanced PD are due to excessive amine turnover in the denervated
>striatum.
>
>Papa S, Chase T; Ann Neur 1996;39:574-578:
>The experimental glutamate antagonist LY235959 in MPTP monkeys seems to
>potentiate the effects of levodopa on PD symptoms while reducing the
>dyskinesia complications.
>
>
>
>J. R. Bruman (818) 789-3694
>3527 Cody Road
>Sherman Oaks CA 91403
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 19:41:32 -0400
>From:    Phil Connors <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: (Fwd) (Fwd) channel log
>
>List members,
>
>I'm trying again with just the Parkinsn address. Note the short time
>--  mri @ 0700 Tues.  I'll get a chance to review any responces on
>Mon before 4 p.m.  Thanks to those on the Caregivers list who
>received ths and hve responded.  Thanks in advance to those on the PD
>list who respond over the weekend..
>
>Phil CG for Carol 59, diad about 11+ yrs
>------- Forwarded Message Follows -------
>From:          Self <BRIDGE/PCONNORS>
>To:            [log in to unmask], [log in to unmask]
>Subject:       (Fwd) channel log
>Date:          Fri, 31 May 1996 01:32:42
>
>------- Forwarded Message Follows -------
>Date:          Thu, 30 May 1996 20:17:59 -0500
>To:            [log in to unmask]
>From:          [log in to unmask]
>Subject:       channel log
>
>
>#parkinsons buffer saved on Thu May 30 20:14:44 1996
>
>[19:40] <pm> I need some fast feedback, if possible.  My wife Carol, 59 diag
>10+ yrs,   fell about 2 mo. ago.  They have been treating her sore shoulder
with
>pain pills and   PT for over a mo.  It has helped some, but the ortho
surg.,the PT, and
>her neuro agree
>> sorry to hear about carol falling. can listen, but may not be much help.
>[19:45] <pm> that it is most llikely time for surgery.  (torn mussle or
>rotator cuff   damage?? She is scheduled to have a MRI on the shoulder at 7
am on Tues.
>This  is a time that Carol is OFF.  I can get her to the MRI but she is trying
>to figure how  she can be still - tremor free for 45 min.  Her neuro says take
>her  Permax, but no Sinemet untill after.  Have any of you had an MRI and
>faced the tremor prob?  Carol has had two mri's in the past, but that was
before the
>tremors were so  bad.
> Then within a few weeks we will need the cautions that I have seen
>   about handling the anestesia and other associated hospital problems.
>> have not had an MRI. how long does her med last? does permax stop tremor? can
>  she time it well enough to go on just prior to MRI?
>[19:54] <pm> Carol is on Permax , reg Sin..,sin CR and liquid Sin..I think
>the last 1 t0 2  hours if boosted with liq "shots"
>> how long does it take the permax to kick in after she take it?
>[19:56] <pm> It takes her about 50 to 90 min to be able to get up after
>taking her  morning meds and she can shake A LOT during this time
>[20:01] <pm> about 45 min for mri
>
>> have you sent query to the mailing list?
>[20:05] <pm> not yet  - this is the first chance I 'e had to get to the
>puters since we saw
>   the surgeon @ 4 on Tues
>> john pops in around 8:30...he would have better answers
>[20:06] <pm> Do you suggest the main list of the Caregiver's list or both???
>> would try both
>> will she be awake during MRI
>[20:07] <pm> Yes to awake
>> am recording :)
>
>[20:08] <pm> Thanks
>> is it possible for carol to be transported proir to meds taking effect?
>[20:12] <pm> let's try someting..... Can you email it to [log in to unmask]
>> sure, one sec
>[20:13] <pm> Yes my son is local and can help me get her in our Aerostar
>
>The above has been edited. Carol's input Her Meds 6:45  2 Permax .25
>mg & 1 Sin 25/100 then @8:15 1/2 Per. and 1/2 Sin 25/100  Repaet
>every 2 1/2 hours & as needed "liq. Sine. Cocktail" (2 Sin and 2 Vit C
>in water) then before bed Sin CR
> any help you can give will be greatly appreciated.
>
>Thanks.  Phil
>
>[log in to unmask]
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 18:32:59 -0400
>From:    "J.R. Bruman" <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Current Science Reviews
>
>Current Science Reviews       by Joe Bruman        (part 4 of 4)
>
>Arendt J; BMJ, 18 May 1996:1242-1243:
>Melatonin, the hormone of the pineal gland, is strictly controlled by
>prescription in the UK, but freely available in the USA. consequently it
>is used by millions of Americans for a large variety of supposed benefits.
>Melatonin does relieve temporary insomnia or jet lag, and has had numerous
>trials for other objectives, but claims that it is an antioxidant,
>immunostimulant, contraceptive, prevents aging, improves cardiovascular
>and sexual function, or cures AD or AIDS, are premature.
>
>Greenamyre J; Ann Neur 1996;39:557-558:
>A class of drugs called glutamate receptor antagonists interferes with the
>glutamatergic subthalamic nucleus, whose overactivity projected to the
>globus pallidus in turn causes symptoms of parkinsonism. Those drugs
>include amantadine, memantine, and budipine, as well as the experimental
>drug LY235959 (see part 3). Experimenters found that such antagonists
>administered either stereotactically or systemically can reduce the amount
>of levodopa required to control primary symptoms of PD, while at the same
>time they suppress the levodopa-induced dyskinesia of advanced PD. Thus
>it appears that drugs may possibly substitute for surgical pallidotomy
>or pallidal stimulation. Moreover, glutamate antagonists may have a
>neuroprotective effect that slows progression of PD. Further testing
>awaits advent of more specific and better-tolerated compounds.
>
>Louis E, Ottman R; Neur 1996;46:1200-1205:
>Etiology and prevalence of essential tremor remain obscure. Estimates
>range as high as 20 times the prevalence of PD. Some PET studies link ET
>to increased cerebellar activity. There is inconclusive evidence of
>genetic susceptibility.
>
>Boeker H et al; Ann Neur 1996;39:650-658:
>Authors used PET scans to assess the geographic effect of ethanol on
>essential tremor in 6 ET patients and 6 controls. Ethanol reduced
>blood flow to the cerebellum in all subjects, leading to suppression
>of tremor in the ET patients. The suppression is mediated via reduction
>of cerebellar synaptic overactivity which causes increased afferent
>input to the inferior olivary nuclei.
>
>J. R. Bruman (818) 789-3694
>3527 Cody Road
>Sherman Oaks CA 91403
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 18:46:52 -0400
>From:    "J.R. Bruman" <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: caffeine,Enderal,Valium???
>
>Barbara, Inderal (propranolol) is a cardiac depressant and needs
>watching. Mysoline (primidone) works better for me. Both are said to
>work for essential tremor (ET), neither for tremor of PD.
>
>Cheers,
>Joe
>
>J. R. Bruman (818) 789-3694
>3527 Cody Road
>Sherman Oaks CA 91403
>
>
>On Fri, 31 May 1996, <Barbara > <Jensen> <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
>
>> I am 47, PD diagnosed for 1 year shortly after first symptom: tremor in right
>> foot, most intense after running.  Now tremor in foot, leg and sometimes
>> right hand.  Coffee and stress seem to make tremor worse.  Anyone out there
>> with a similar experience?
>>
>> Enderal and 5 mg Valium controls tremor more than Sinemet for me right now.
>>  Anyone know anything about Enderal for PD???
>>
>> Thank you, [log in to unmask]  Barbara Jensen
>>
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 18:35:30 -0400
>From:    Arthur Hirsch <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: Parkinson's Disease on the Web
>
>>Just discovered a new site on the Web dealing with Parkinson's Disease
>>that is well done, informative, and worthy of a visit.  It is entitled "A
>>presentation on Parkinson's Disease for families, patients and
>>Rehabilitation Team Members" prepared by Yali Friedman.
>>
>>The url is http://www.grfn.org/~morph.present/park0.htm
>>
>>--------------------
>>  Sid Roberts   66/dx2
>>  [log in to unmask]       Youngstown, Ohio
>>
>>
>Sid, it looks like good material, but as at least two others on the last
>have pointed out, the URL is slightly in error.  Instead try
>
>
>http://www.grfn.org/~morph/present/park0.htm
>
>
>
>It's easy to forget that we have the ability to copy and paste complicated
>things like URL's.  As much trouble as many of us have typing things into
>the computer, this feature can be a great timesaver.  And it helps with
>accuracy, too.
>
>Incidentally, once I knew that the page was there, thanks to you, I found it
>easily by looking for the home page of Yali Friedman.
>
>Art Hirsch
>[log in to unmask]
>Lewisville, TX
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 11:58:50 -0400
>From:    Martin Bayne <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Important Udall Bill Info
>
>I've been hounding my congressman (Gerald Solomon(R), NY; Chairman of the
>House Rules Committee) for over a month now with urgent calls and faxes
>re: the Udall Bill. He called me today and we spoke at length. What
>follows is an abridged version of the conversation:  Mr. Solomon assured
>me that in his position as Chair of the Rules Committee, he would do
>everything within his power to promote and pass the legislation *once* it
>arrives at his committee. He also shared with me the fact that he has
>watched more than one person in his family suffer with PD -- and he is
>very sensitive to both the disease and the need for increased funding to
>find a cure. (He added that he vigorously promoted increased NIH funding
>for this very reason; in hopes that PD research would indirectly
>benefit.) My take on the conversation? He appeared to be sincere and
>although would not act as a cosponsor, we must all remember he could
>prove to be VERY influential down the road when the bill is sent to his
>committee. I STRONGLY URGE (not shouting, just emphasizing) everyone to
>fax(202-225-1168) or call (202-225-5614) Mr Solomon to *congratulate* him
>on his support of the bill vis a vis my conversation with him. This will
>serve to remind him of his promise. MKB
>--
>Martin K Bayne  http://www.mr-longtermcare.com
>Email= [log in to unmask]
>
>------------------------------
>
>Date:    Fri, 31 May 1996 17:58:28 -0400
>From:    [log in to unmask]
>Subject: UDALL BOMB SHELL
>
>I guess it was destined to happen.  Congressman Chris Smith of New
>Jersey introduced a second version of the Udall Bill.  The original
>version is H R  1462.  Smith's version (HR 3510) excludes the use of human
>fetal tissue obtained from an induced abortion.  Whether this is good
>news or bad news I'm not sure.
>
>On the positive side,  possibly this will result in the  Commerce
>Subcommittee having hearings on the increasing funding for
>Parkinson's and get something moving on the house side.  It's also
>brings to new supporters on as cosponsors Volkmer  of Missouri and
>Flannigan of Illinois.
>
>On the negative side, anything which adds controversy to this issue
>will likely take more time to resolve.  This comes at a point where
>time is perhaps a greater problem than votes.
>
>My initial thoughts therefore are that this decreases our chances of
>passing a bill this year which would increase funding for Parkinson's
>research.  The key is how the pro choice supporters of HR 1462 react.
> If the abortion issue overshadows the Parkinson's research issue, we
>with Parkinson's may become yet another pawn in the abortion
>struggle.
>
>------------------------------
>
>End of PARKINSN Digest - 30 May 1996 to 31 May 1996
>***************************************************
>
>