Bonnie Rowley-
Good afternoon:
From: Stephan Schwartz <[log in to unmask]>
To: Multiple recipients of list PARKINSN <PARKINSN@lis...
Subject: Apomorphine for Parkinson's use. -Reply
You asked about APOMORPHINE.
Apomorphine is considered to be a drug that works nearly
as well as levodopa. It is described as a dopamine receptor
agonist that stimulates both the D1 and D2 receptors (more
so the D2) in nearly the same way that dopamine does.
It is prescribed for the relief of "off" periods in late stage PD.
In early PD it is used to predict the patient response to
levodopa therapy. Consequently, it would appear to be likely
to produce the same "peak-dose" effects as levodopa.
Since it is usually injected intermittently by the patient
using a single use peninjector perhaps the intervals need to
be increased. There is also a portable pump system which
continuously infuses the patient throughout the day.
Because of the severe side effects (nausea and
decreased blood pressure) domperidone is given to block
these side effects.
Clinical trials are underway for nasal inhalers,
under-the-tongue tablets and suppositories.
Stephan 54/8
