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First, thank you again for the invaluable responses to my query to this list last December. It was those responses that urged me to see a neurologist who specializes in movement disorders. I'm 66. I began to develop some pd symptoms 3 or 4 years ago, and was provisionally diagnosed with pd 1 1/2 years ago by a neurologist who prescribed Mirapex. He said there was no need to begin immediately--I could start any time. I did not start on the Mirapex, because I am conservative regarding pharmaceuticals. (Vioxx was prescribed for me and I declined to take it.) Six months ago I found Janice Walton-Hadlock's book on "pdrecovery" according to the principles of Asian medicine, and I followed the prescribed routine till now with inconclusive results. I saw the neurologist specializing in movement disorders two weeks ago, and he confirmed the diagnosis, saying it looks very much like pd, AND he said that it is progressing. Neurologist 2 (the movement disorder specialist) prescribed Sinemet rather than Mirapex AND he pressed me to start taking it right away. He said there is some recent evidence that patients who start on meds early do better for longer than those who postpone it. He promised to supply the citation, and I will call his office in a few days to get it. Here are my questions: 1) What can you tell me about the advantages and disadvantages of starting meds sooner rather than later? Do you know what study or studies Neurologist 2 may have been referring to? 2) Mirapex or Sinemet or something else? What should I know to help with the decision? (Of course I will question both neurologists about this.) 3) Neurologist 2 said I should take the Sinemet in increasing doses. I can't read his handwriting, but it looks like 100/2? three times a day. First week: 1/2 pill 3x day. Second week: 1 pill 3x day. Third week: 1 1/2 pills 3x day. If I do start Sinemet, should I look more closely at dosage, and consider alternative dosages? 4) Does anyone have any experience with herbs, particularly passion flower, evening primrose, gingko, milk thistle, grape seed, or pinebark extract, in treating PD? Thanks in advance. Diana ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn