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Published on: October 4, 2021
Dopamine agonist withdrawal syndrome: A comprehensive review
Xin Xin Yu1, Hubert H Fernandez1
1Center for Neurological Restoration, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave U2, Cleveland, OH, USA.
Dopamine agonist withdrawal syndrome (DAWS) affects up to 19% of Parkinson disease patients. Recognizing risk factors like impulse control disorders is crucial for preventing this severe complication.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Dopamine agonists are standard Parkinson disease (PD) treatments.
- Side effects can necessitate dose reduction or discontinuation.
- Dopamine agonist withdrawal syndrome (DAWS) is a significant complication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the current understanding of DAWS.
- To identify risk factors for DAWS.
- To emphasize the need for early recognition and monitoring.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of DAWS.
- Analysis of identified risk factors for DAWS.
- Discussion of clinical implications.
Main Results:
- DAWS affects up to 19% of PD patients during dopamine agonist taper.
- Key risk factors include impulse control disorders and higher medication dosage.
- Deep brain stimulation history may also be a risk factor.
Conclusions:
- No standard treatment currently exists for DAWS.
- Early identification of at-risk patients is critical for prevention.
- Close monitoring during dopamine agonist tapering is essential for high-risk individuals.
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