[Abnormal movements induced by L-dopa. New therapeutic possibilities].

One of the major difficulties in the treatment of Parkinson's disease with L-Dopa alone or associated with a decarboxylase inhibitor lies in the frequent occurrence of involuntary movements. In some cases these movements can be prevented (eliminated) by increasing the plasma DCI concentration or by associating 3-oxy-methyl-dopa. In resistant cases the authors have conducted a trial with EP 19-088, which belongs to a new class of tricyclic derivatives of indenopyridine. The trial population comprised 42 patients. In 12 of these there was complete cessation of symptoms. In 9 patients a marked improvement was noted, while in 10 others the improvement was slight but definite. The treatment was discontinued in 2 cases due to episodes of increased confusion. In the other 9 patients the experimental treatment had no effect. No side effects were observed in 24 of the 42 patients tested. In addition to symptoms such as nausea or transient heartburn, the remaining patients reported either a slight worsening of their parkinsonian symptoms or an increase in diurnal fatigability.