Medication Optimization

To reduce off times, you want to be able to get the most out of your medications. Here are a few tips you might try to increase the effectiveness of your medication:

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• Take the medication as prescribed by your doctor. Make sure you understand the expected benefit and potential early side effects of a drug before you leave the doctor's office. Remember that your doctor probably has more clinical experience in treating people with PD than anyone else who is likely to give you advice (especially if the physician is a Movement Disorder Specialist)

• Do not increase or suddenly stop any of your drugs without checking with your doctor first.

• Levodopa generally works best on an empty stomach, so aim to take your meds around a half hour before your meals, or at least an hour after. If your medication is causing you to feel nauseous, you may have to take it with food until your body adjusts.

• Make sure you take your meds with four to five ounces of water so that the drugs are absorbed into your body quickly.