Compulsive behaviour
There are several categories of drugs for the treatment of
Parkinson's and it is thought that there may be a connection
between some dopamine agonists (one class of drugs that can be used
to treat Parkinson's) and the incidence of compulsive
behaviour.
However, clinical studies have shown this to be an uncommon side
effect, currently estimated to occur in up to 14% of people taking
dopamine agonists to varying degrees. Some studies have
suggested that other types of anti-Parkinson's medication can
produce similar effects.
What is compulsive behaviour?
Compulsive disorders are associated with a person's inability to
resist a temptation or impulse that may ultimately cause harm to
themselves or others. In a lot of cases, this behaviour may be out
of character for the person. These can be expressed in a number of
ways and here are just a few examples:
- Pathological (addictive) gambling
- Hypersexuality
- Compulsive (binge) eating
- Compulsive shopping
- Punding or 'compulsive hobbyism'
- Addiction to anti-Parkinson's medication
What can be done to help?
It is important to realise that this behaviour, which is known
as Impulse Control Disorder (ICD), is abnormal and a person
experiencing it should seek help from a Parkinson's nurse,
neurologist or hospital physician urgently.
As the person themselves may not realise that there is a
problem, it is key that carers and family members note any abnormal
behaviour and discuss it with the appropriate professional at the
earliest possible stage.
Treatment strategies
Treatment strategies can involve reducing the dose of
Parkinson's medication, undertaking psychotherapy and also
considering whether other types of medication should be
introduced.
The Parkinson's Disease Society does not advise anyone
to stop taking their Parkinson's drugs without seeking the advice
of their health professional. Changes to a Parkinson's medication
regimen should only be made with the advice of a Parkinson's
specialist.
As well as discussing medication concerns with a Parkinson's
nurse, neurologist or hospital physician, appropriate action should
be taken immediately to limit the impact of these compulsive
behaviours. For example, you may need to seek financial advice
if compulsive gambling has led to financial difficulties, or
speak to a relationship counsellor if your relationships are being
affected by your libido.
Real life stories
Several people have decided to share their experiences of how
the compulsive behaviours they developed after taking
anti-Parkinson's drugs affected them. They hope that their stories
will help others identify any potential issues, and take
action immediately.
PDS Helpline
Advisors on the Parkinson's Disease Society Helpline (freephone 0808 800 0303) can offer
information and support to people who are worried they are
displaying signs of compulsive behaviours and signpost them to
other support organisations who can help.
All calls to the Helpline are confidential.
Advice for professionals
Compulsive behaviour: information for
healthcare professionals
Further information
Frequently Asked Questions on compulsive
behaviour
We also have the following information sheets, available from
our information sheets page.
- Compulsive behaviour and Parkinson's information sheet
- Gambling and Parkinson's information sheet
- Hypersexuality and Parkinson's information sheet
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