There are a few classes of medications that should be avoided in those with Parkinson’s Disease. These medications may temporarily worsen Parkinson’s symptoms until the medication is cleared from the body.
Anti-emetics
Anti-emetics are medications used to treat upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting. Some of these medications can block dopamine.
There are a few anti-emetics considered safe for those with Parkinson’s:
- Zofran (ondansetron)
- Tigan (trimethobenzamide)
There are many anti-emetics that should be avoided in those with Parkinson’s:
- Reglan (metoclopramide)
- Compazine (prochlorperazine)
- Phenergan (promethazine)
Antipsychotics
Antipsychotics (also called neuroleptics) may be prescribed or given to treat aggression or agitation. Almost all of these medications should be avoided in those with Parkinson’s Disease as they strongly block dopamine. Remember, Parkinson’s Disease causes low dopamine, so using a medication that blocks dopamine makes this worse.
There are a few antipsychotics considered safe for those with Parkinson’s:
- Seroquel (quetiapine)
- Nuplazid (pimavanserin)
- Clozaril (clozapine)
There are many antipsychotics that should be avoided in those with Parkinson’s, though each person requires an individualized approach:
- Haldol (haloperidol) — this medication should NEVER be used in those with Parkinson’s Disease
- Risperdal (risperidone)
- Zyprexa (olanzapine)
- Geodon (ziprasidone)
- Thorazine (chlorpromazine)
- Vraylar (cariprazine)
- Abilify (aripiprazole)
- Rexulti (brexipiprazole)
- Latuda (lurasidone)
- Invega (paliperidone)
Author Mick Reedy, MD, is a Movement Disorders Specialist with
Inova Parkinson’s and Movement Disorders Center (IPMDC)