I was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1988 and prescribed Sinemet, Parlodel, and later Eldepryl. I have done well until recently. In November of this year I developed burning chest pains. An angiogram conducted on December 4 revealed an occluded descending posterior artery. On December 5 I underwent an angioplasty during which a stent was placed. The post-angioplasty period went well for about 10 days, when I began to experience episodes of orthostatic hypotension with syncope. During this post-operative period I continued with the Parkinson meds as prescribed. I was hospitalized for 5 days and closely monitored. During this period I exhibited extreme orthostasis with most any postural change. The most parsimonious interpretation of the events of those 5 days involve the Parkinson's meds. The occluded artery probably required greater effort from the heart thus producing mild hypertension. Parkinson meds such as Sinemet. Parlodel, and Eldepryl can produce mild hypotension. The result was a normal blood pressure. The angioplasty relieved the occlusion and allowed the heart to return to a less effortful rate, but the Parkinson's meds now served to lower the blood prssure even further. The result was severe orthostasis. The consulting neurologist discontinued the Eldepryl and added Lodosyn (carbidopa). He intends to adjust the meds further over time. It was a frightening time for me, and I encourage any Parkinson's patient to consult with a neurologist regarding the effects of our meds on the circulatory system. Especially so if angioplasty is contemplated. Best wishes, Thomas Barrett