Other drug-induced secondary parkinsonism Save
ICD-10 code: G21.1
Chapter: Diseases of the nervous system
Understanding Other Drug-Induced Secondary Parkinsonism
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects the way you move. The condition is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain, leading to tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with coordination. While there is no cure for Parkinson's disease, there are several treatments that can help manage the symptoms.
However, some drugs can cause secondary parkinsonism, a condition that mimics Parkinson's disease symptoms. This condition is known as drug-induced secondary parkinsonism and is often reversible once the drug causing it is stopped.
What Causes Drug-Induced Secondary Parkinsonism?
Drug-induced secondary parkinsonism occurs when certain medications block dopamine receptors in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate movement, and when it is blocked, it can cause Parkinson's-like symptoms.
Some of the drugs that can cause drug-induced secondary parkinsonism include:
- Antipsychotics: These medications are used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric conditions.
- Anti-nausea drugs: These drugs are often used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy or surgery.
- Calcium channel blockers: These medications are used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions.
Symptoms of Drug-Induced Secondary Parkinsonism
The symptoms of drug-induced secondary parkinsonism are similar to those of Parkinson's disease, including:
- Tremors
- Stiffness
- Slow movements
- Difficulty with coordination and balance
- Difficulty with speech and swallowing
However, drug-induced secondary parkinsonism tends to develop more quickly than Parkinson's disease and may only affect one side of the body.
Treatment for Drug-Induced Secondary Parkinsonism
The treatment for drug-induced secondary parkinsonism involves stopping the medication causing the symptoms. In some cases, the symptoms may improve on their own once the medication is stopped. However, in other cases, medication may be needed to help manage the symptoms until they resolve.
If you are experiencing Parkinson's-like symptoms and are taking medication, it is important to talk to your doctor. They can help determine if your symptoms are caused by drug-induced secondary parkinsonism and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Overall, drug-induced secondary parkinsonism is a condition that can mimic the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. However, it is often reversible once the medication causing it is stopped. If you are experiencing Parkinson's-like symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor