Updates in the pharmacological treatment of Parkinson’s disease: a literature review

Abstract

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is primarily characterized by the degeneration of the central nervous system, which leads to both motor and non-motor symptoms. However, it is important to emphasize that these symptoms can be mitigated through the use of appropriate medications tailored to each patient, particularly according to the stage of the disease. Objective: To systematically review the literature in order to identify recent pharmacological updates in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Methods: A search was conducted in the LILACS, PubMed, and SciELO databases using descriptors related to Parkinson’s disease and pharmacotherapy. Results: Nine studies from ten countries were included, comprising a total sample of 1,986 participants. The findings indicate that the treatment of PD is already well established, with levodopa considered the gold-standard therapy. However, due to the increasing predisposition of individuals to develop the disease and the adverse effects associated with emotional and psychiatric conditions, new potential medications such as zonisamide, safinamide, MAO-B inhibitors, rivastigmine, Origanum majorana, and Pingchan granules are being investigated. These agents aim to promote greater independence and improve patients’ quality of life, as they may enhance motor symptoms and, particularly, non-motor symptoms. These potential drugs may serve as adjuvant therapy to levodopa. Conclusion: Although levodopa remains the drug of choice in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, new pharmacological agents have shown promise as alternative therapies, especially for managing the psychiatric symptoms associated with the disease, thereby improving patients’ quality of life. Nevertheless, further studies are required to strengthen the evidence base supporting pharmacological management in PD.