Our statement on French court ruling for man with Parkinson's

29 November 2012

Reports are circulating today about a ruling in the French courts which ordered drug manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline to pay £160,000 in damages to Didier Jambart, after he experienced distressing side effects, when taking the drug Requip.

Impulsive and compulsive behaviour

All drugs can carry a risk of side effects. In Parkinson's, some medications – known as dopamine agonists – have led to some people experiencing a side effect called impulsive and compulsive behaviour.

Impulsive and compulsive behaviour - also known as impulse control disorder - can range from compulsive gambling, to hypersexuality and binge eating.

Around 17% of people taking dopamine agonists will develop some degree of these side effects, which in some cases can be extremely upsetting.

Risk factors

Not everyone taking these drugs will be affected by impulsive and compulsive behaviour.

We have developed a range of resources for health professionals working with people who may be at risk, so they can be aware of the signs and screen their patients before prescribing medication.

Risk factors for developing this side effect, can include:

• being diagnosed with Parkinson's under the age of 50
• having a family or personal history of risk-taking or impulsive or compulsive behaviours, such as addictive gambling

Time to be vigilant

Speaking about the ruling, our chief executive Steve Ford said:

"Sadly, Didier Jambart's experience highlights how impulsive and compulsive behaviour - a side effect of some Parkinson's medications - can devastate lives.

"Less than a fifth of people taking dopamine agonists - such as Requip - will develop some form of this distressing behaviour, which can range from compulsive gambling to binge eating and hypersexuality.

"These drugs can make a huge difference to the lives of many people with Parkinson's and its important that people aren't scared of taking them. We certainly wouldn't want anyone to stop taking their medication out of fear that they too may be at risk.

"We would encourage anyone who is concerned to find out more about what the potential warning signs - such as changes in behaviour or mood - to come to us to find out more.

"We hope that this ruling will encourage all specialists to be more vigilant when it comes to looking for changes in behaviour so that people like Didier and their families are spared these debilitating side effects."

• Read the Independent's report of the French court ruling

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