Dopamine Dysregulation Syndrome in Parkinson's Disease

This case study examines how patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) may develop dopamine dysregulation syndrome (DDS), a condition characterized by the misuse of dopamine replacement therapy through excessive self-directed dosing beyond what is necessary to control motor symptoms. While carbidopa/levodopa remains the mainstay therapy for many adults with PD, some patients may choose Mucuna pruriens, a complementary medicine containing levodopa, to manage their motor symptoms. This case describes a patient with PD who presents with DDS following co-administration of self-directed Mucuna pruriens alongside extended-release (ER) and immediate-release (IR) carbidopa/levodopa. Recognizing the presentation and risk factors of DDS is crucial, as is educating and monitoring patients with PD to prevent misuse of both their prescribed dopamine replacement therapy and Mucuna pruriens supplements.