Ever wonder why your doctor is prescribing a new medication for you? Or changing the timing or dosage of the one you are taking now? And what about side effects? What should you watch out for and report to your physician? Medications to Treat Parkinson’s Disease, a new professional resource from Parkinson Canada could provide these answers, and all in one convenient resource.

This guide for individuals and health professionals, written by Tejal Patel, BScPharm, PharmD, and Feng Chang, BScPharm, PharmD, will be available next month.  Canadians can access this resource in French and English, online at www.parkinson.ca and www.ParkinsonClinicalGuidelines.ca.  The booklet outlines how each medication works, its side effects and tips about adjusting medication, always under medical supervision.

The publication includes self-monitoring tools such as calendars and surveys that you can fill out and discuss at your medical appointments, ensuring that you are in control of your Parkinson’s at every step.

“This booklet empowers people living with Parkinson’s, as well as their care partners and health care providers, by giving each person the knowledge they need about Parkinson’s medications,” says Grace Ferrari, Senior Manager, Education and Support.

You will learn how to get the best performance from your medications. You will be more aware of tracking side effects, so that you can explain them accurately to your health care professionals and make the necessary medication adjustments. Health professionals will appreciate the convenience of a single resource, and families will benefit from the detailed information.

“Ultimately, we hope the book improves the quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s and their families,” says Ferrari.
The booklet will be distributed to health centres, doctor’s offices and pharmacies across the country, for both the professionals who work there, and the clients who visit. Medications to Treat Parkinson’s Disease will be officially launched at an educational event with one of the authors in Montreal on April 26, and it will be available before that date. Health care providers can contact education@parkinson.ca to access bulk quantities for their patients and clients.

Authors Patel and Chang are also working on a mobile phone application (app) to help individuals keep track of their medication regime, including timing reminders, symptom fluctuations and side effects. The app will also help health care professionals in selecting and adjusting medications for their patients with Parkinson’s. Parkinson Canada plans to launch this new app in June at the Canadian Pharmacists Conference in Quebec City.

Be sure to check in regularly at www.parkinson.ca for the latest Parkinson Canada education resources to help you live your best life with Parkinson’s. And visit our Knowledge Network for video and audio resources.