Expert: Susan - 4/20/2004

Question
My mom is 62, diagnosed two years ago with Parkinsons, Alzheimers, and mild depression.  She currently takes Paxil, Aricept and Carbodopa/Levodopa ER.  I have heard that the Parkinsons med can make the Alzheimer's worse?  Is this true?  I have also heard people with Parkinsons say that they only felt better when they stopped taking all meds.
Also, what are some good vitamins to ad to her diet to help improve her condition?  I have read that Ginko Baloba and E are good.

Answer
Hanna,

These questions are very difficult to answer without knowing your mother's entire medical history.  They are best brought to her doctor and/or pharmacist, who will have a better understanding of the interactions of any medications that your mother is taking.  People with Parkinson's disease can have very different experiences with medications so it is not possible for us to say how it may or may not affect your mother's Alzheimer's condition.

If you would like to receive a packet of information on Parkinson's disease, including helpful booklets on exercise, nutrition, etc., send your full name and mailing address to our email address at parkinsonscenter@enh.org and we will mail a packet to you.  It may answer a number of your general questions regarding Parkinson's disease and how best to help your mother.

American Parkinson Disease Association
Information and Referral Center