MANAGING PARKINSON'S DISEASE AT EVERY STAGE

Effects of Parkinson's Disease on Lifestyle

Minor symptoms mean minor adjustments

During the early stages of Parkinson's disease, most patients experience only minor symptoms. Many people continue to work or participate in other activities. However, they may become self-conscious about their symptoms.

The symptoms of Parkinson's disease may appear only at certain times of the day. This means it's important to plan activities ahead of time. This will keep you from feeling pressured to "hurry up and get ready" when the time comes.

You may start needing help

As the disease progresses, Parkinson's disease symptoms become more noticeable. You may be forced to work fewer hours and to cut back on your level of activities. Simple tasks become more of a challenge. You may also need some help from family and friends.

In the advanced stages of Parkinson's disease, you may find that using a wheelchair helps you move around more easily. You may also need some help with daily activities. You can also get help from your spouse, family members, friends, or other care partners. You may also choose to work with healthcare professionals who can visit your home every day.

Goals for managing Parkinson's disease

Keep in mind that the key to preserving your functioning is managing the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. The goals of managing this disease include:

Keeping symptoms under control
Maintaining normal daily activities
Balancing the impact of Parkinson's disease on work and relationships
Delaying the start of levodopa therapy for as long as possible

KEY POINTS
Most patients experience only minor symptoms at first Eventually, you will have to make adjustments in your life You may need help from family and/or a care partner Keeping your symptoms under control will help keep you functioning

Next: Staying active for those with Parkinson's disease

Important Information about MIRAPEX: MIRAPEX is indicated for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (PD).

MIRAPEX may cause you to fall asleep without any warning, even while doing normal daily activities, such as driving. Before taking MIRAPEX, talk to your doctor if you drink alcohol or take other medications that make you drowsy as these can increase the chance that MIRAPEX will make you feel sleepy or fall asleep when you should be awake. When taking MIRAPEX, hallucinations (seeing, hearing, feeling, or tasting something that isn’t there) may occur and you may sometimes feel dizzy, nauseated, faint or sweaty when you sit up or stand quickly.

In clinical trials for early PD, the most commonly reported side effects of MIRAPEX that were more frequent than with placebo are nausea, dizziness, sleepiness, difficulty falling asleep, involuntary movement, and constipation. In clinical trials for advanced PD, the most commonly reported side effects of MIRAPEX that were more frequent than with placebo are low blood pressure when you sit up or stand quickly, involuntary movement, difficulty falling asleep, dizziness, accidental injury, hallucinations, and dream abnormalities. You should talk with your doctor if you experience these problems.

There have been reports of impulse control disorders and compulsive behaviors in patients taking certain medicines, including MIRAPEX. If you or your family members notice that you are experiencing new or increased gambling urges, increased sexual urges or other intense urges, such as compulsive shopping or eating, while taking MIRAPEX, talk to your doctor.

Please see full Prescribing Information.

This information is intended for U.S. residents only.