Two important issues regarding Parkinson's medications are when to initiate them in the early phases of the disease and how to ensure that people use their medications on time, every time. Myths and misconceptions have surrounded the controversial question of when to start taking medication. Fortunately, research has provided some answers, indicating that early initiation of levodopa or other medications does not diminish their usefulness later on. In this episode, Dr. Indu Subramanian, Director of the Parkinson's Disease Research, Education and Clinical Center at the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Medical Center, discusses what has been learned about the timing of the initiation of therapy.

 

She also provides strategies for getting the most benefit from medications, from taking them at the right time every time, to establishing other regular schedules, to working with your doctor at every visit to optimize benefits and minimize side effects. And as a neurologist who is also board certified in integrative medicine, Dr. Subramanian advocates for incorporating mind-body, movement, and breathing techniques, as well as connecting with nature when using medication and other traditional Western medical practices.