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Linda, Hallucinations are not usually a symptom related to PD itself. It much more frequently is related to adverse reactions to PD (and other) medications including sinemet and the dopamine agonists. Are the hallucinations auditory or visual? As Kathryn has mentioned it may be related to lorazepam or Paxil but realistically the paxil is more likely to help- although it may effect the ability for her body to metabolize other drugs. Lorazepam has a definite risk of accumulating causing ataxia in the elderly. Don't be afraid of ECT. It is unlikely to be recommended but it can be safe and effective for some but not all cases of Psychotic Major Depressive Disorder which she may have if a complication of drug therapy is ruled out. The most likely cause of the confusion and hallucinations especially in this apparently acute onset. is medications. Clozaril, olanzepine (zyprexa) and I believe there is a new one since I retired from my psychiatry practice are- after a trial of adjusting current medications (downward) are possible meds which can help. Get her to the psychiatrist who can evaluate the clinical picture. He should have interest and experience in biological psychiatry especially with PD patients.. She should also be seen by a neurologist at least in consultation if she isn't seeing one already. Unless the GP has a great deal of experience with complicated PD patients it is my firm belief that PD patients should be treated with the consultation at least by a neurologist with extra training in movement disorders. In any case a physician who knows her and has examined her is the best sourse of medical advice. Good luck and have a Great Holiday Season Charlie 54/9/13 Linda McMurray wrote: > I am a caregiver for Dorothy, 69, who has had parkinsons for seven > years. Since October, her parkinsons has progressed rather rapidly. We > do have an appointment with a specialist in January. However, this past > two weeks, she has been having repeated hallucinations and has been very > depressed and confused. Her family doctor insists these are not > parkinsons symptoms and wants to refer her to a psychiatrist. I've > noticed two other posts to this list citing similar problems, but no > details. Are these related to parkinsons or not and are electric shock > treatments options to be considered - the only options? (She is > currently on Paxil and Lorazapam.) -- ****************************************************************************************** Charles T. Meyer, M.D. Middleton (Madison), Wisconsin [log in to unmask] ******************************************************************************************