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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2010
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Parkinson's Drugs Trigger Compulsive Behavior

Patients report sudden onset of addictions

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(Newser) – Drugs for Parkinson's disease can be enormously beneficial, relieving patients' tremors and rigid muscles. But some patients are now complaining of an unusual side effect—extreme compulsive behavior. One woman began taking Mirapex to combat symptoms and suddenly found herself with a $200-a-day scratch-off lottery ticket habit, reports the Chicago Tribune.

Neurologists have discovered that 13% of Parkinson's patients taking a class of drugs that provide dopamine to the brain have experienced at least one of four serious behavioral addictions including sexual activity, gambling, and shopping. "I was manic to the point where there was another person inside of me," said one sufferer.

Neurologists have discovered that 13% of Parkinson's patients taking a class of drugs that provide dopamine to the brain have experienced at least one of four serious behavioral addictions.
Neurologists have discovered that 13% of Parkinson's patients taking a class of drugs that provide dopamine to the brain have experienced at least one of four serious behavioral addictions.   (Index Stock)
Neurologists have discovered that 13% of Parkinson's patients taking a class of drugs that provide dopamine to the brain have experienced at least one of four serious behavioral addictions.
Neurologists have discovered that 13% of Parkinson's patients taking a class of drugs that provide dopamine to the brain have experienced at least one of four serious behavioral addictions.   (Index Stock)
Some Parkinson's patients are experiencing an unforeseen side effect: compulsive behaviors.
Some Parkinson's patients are experiencing an unforeseen side effect: compulsive behaviors.   (Index Stock)
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One-time casual gambler sues Mirapex manufacturer
Reuters

More on the case of the gambling-addicted patient
New York Daily News

Information on Parkinson's disease
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

 
gambling • Parkinson's disease • addiction • prescription drugs • dopamine • Mirapex • compulsive behavior

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