Science News

Study Shows Multiple Sleep Problems Are Common in Early Parkinson's

Parkinson's Foundation Science News blogs

More than 75% of people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) report sleep-related symptoms. The presence of sleep disorders can significantly impact quality of life for the person with Parkinson’s and their care partner, contributing to fatigue, cognitive impairment and mood disorders. 

Man laying in bed having trouble sleeping

Sleep disorders can manifest in various ways, including insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep), Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (acting out dreams), restless leg syndrome, excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep apnea.  

Research shows that sleep problems are common in early Parkinson’s stages and can get worse as the disease progresses. It’s likely that these issues stem from a combination of factors including the disease's impact on brain regions regulating sleep-wake cycles. Research also shows that sleep issues are worsened due to coexisting PD conditions like depression and anxiety, medication side effects and movement symptoms.  

However, it remains unclear if people with PD usually suffer from one single type of sleep problem, or from multiple sleep problems at the same time. In addition, researchers are still learning how sleep issues relate to other aspects of PD. A new study published in npj Parkinson's Disease systematically evaluated sleep issues in people with early-stage Parkinson's.  

Study Results 

To learn more about sleep disorders, the study examined sleep issues in 162 people with early-stage Parkinson's and 58 people without the disease. The research team used interviews, overnight sleep studies (polysomnography) and various tests to understand the participants' sleep, motor skills, thinking abilities and other health factors.  

They found that a large majority (71%) of those with early-stage Parkinson's had at least one sleep disorder. Importantly, about half of those with sleep problems experienced multiple issues at the same time. They also observed that the longer someone had Parkinson's and the more problems they had with involuntary bodily functions (like blood pressure or digestion), the more sleep disorders they tended to have. 

This new study data shows that most common sleep issues associated with Parkinson’s were insomnia (41% of participants), followed by REM sleep behavior disorder and excessive daytime sleepiness (both 25% of participants), and restless legs syndrome (16% of participants). Rates of sleep-disordered breathing, such as sleep apnea, were consistent between those with and without the disease. 

The researchers looked for trends between sleep disorders, demographics, and common PD symptoms. They found that insomnia, especially trouble staying asleep, was more common in women and those with restless legs syndrome but wasn't linked to movement problems or mood issues. REM sleep behavior disorder seemed to be connected to problems with involuntary bodily functions (like blood pressure or digestion) and older age, but not movement or thinking difficulties. Excessive daytime sleepiness was related to mood symptoms, movement problems and the use of certain Parkinson's medications, but not other sleep disorders. 

Overall, the study found that sleep problems are very common even in early-stage Parkinson's and that people with PD often suffer from multiple sleep issues at the same time. The results suggest that these sleep issues are more likely to be tied to physical changes in the body rather than psychological factors, like anxiety or depression. 

Highlights 

  • The study enrolled 162 people with early-stage Parkinson's and 58 people without the disease. 

  • The study found that sleep problems are very common in early Parkinson's and that many PD patients have multiple sleep disturbances. 

  • The most common sleep problems impacting people with Parkinson’s were insomnia (41% of participants), REM sleep behavior disorder (25% of participants), excessive daytime sleepiness (25% of participants), and restless legs syndrome (16% of participants). 

  • Sleep issues are more likely tied to physical changes in the body rather than psychological factors, like anxiety or depression. 

What does this mean? 

Sleep disorders are a common non-movement symptom in Parkinson’s disease, and are typically caused by changes in the body, rather than by anxiety or depression. Importantly, this study shows that people with PD frequently experience multiple sleep disorders at once. This increases the difficulty of properly treating sleep disorders and likely increases the burden of sleep issues on the daily lives of those with PD. 

Additionally, this study reflects that many people in the early stages of PD — even before the development of severe motor impairment — experience sleep issues. Thrashing around in bed or acting out dreams when deeply asleep may be an early sign of Parkinson's. 

What do these findings mean to the people with PD right now? 

There are many tips you can try at home to naturally address sleep issues. There are also treatments your care team can recommend addressing sleep disorders. This is a topic everyone with PD should bring up to their doctor and care team, who may refer you to a sleep specialist. A specialist can evaluate and identify sleep issues, which can customize treatment options.   

Sleep is particularly essential to people with PD as recent research studies have shown that sleep helps clear waste products from the brain. This has significant implications for people with PD as abnormal proteins build up in the brain.   

Learn More 

The Parkinson’s Foundation believes in empowering the Parkinson’s community through education. Learn more about PD and sleep in our below resources, or by calling our free Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) for answers to your Parkinson’s questions. 

Raise Awareness

Nuestros 10 videos más populares acerca del Parkinson en español

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Tanto si está recién diagnosticado con la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP) como si lleva años viviendo con ella, ¡a veces un breve video es todo lo que necesita para aprender algo nuevo! 

Eche un vistazo a nuestros 10 videos más populares en español y vea cómo pueden empoderarlo para manejar sus síntomas con confianza.  

Desde ejercicios de voz hasta entender las causas de la EP, estos videos en español ofrecen valiosos conocimientos, consejos de expertos y sugerencias prácticas.  

1. Ejercicio de voz para la enfermedad de Parkinson 

Así como la EP afecta el movimiento en otras partes del cuerpo, también afecta los músculos de la cara, la boca y la garganta que se utilizan para hablar y tragar. Acompañe a la Parkinson’s Foundation y a la terapeuta del habla y el lenguaje Leslie J. Ledée Lozada en esta serie de ejercicios para la voz. 

2. Los ejercicios recomendados para el Parkinson 

No importa en qué punto de la enfermedad de Parkinson se encuentre, el movimiento es medicina. Las investigaciones demuestran que el ejercicio y la actividad física no sólo pueden mantener y mejorar la movilidad, la flexibilidad y el equilibrio, sino también aliviar los síntomas no motores de la EP. Vea este video para aprender por qué debería hacer ejercicio y cómo puede mejorar su calidad de vida. 

3. ¿Cuáles son las causas de la enfermedad de Parkinson?  

Aunque cada persona experimenta el Parkinson de manera distinta, existen algunos puntos en común. Vea este video para saber cómo están relacionados los factores genéticos y ambientales con la EP.  

4. ¿Cuáles son las etapas de la enfermedad de Parkinson?  

Aunque los síntomas y la progresión de la enfermedad son únicos para cada persona, conocer los estadios típicos del Parkinson puede ayudarle a anticipar y manejar mejor los cambios a medida que ocurren.  

5. Viernes de Ejercicio - Danza: explorando ritmos desde la silla 

En este video de Viernes de Ejercicio nos enfocamos en la coordinación y la percepción del espacio, todo desde la comodidad de una silla. 

6. Controlando los síntomas de la enfermedad de Parkinson 

Hay mucho que saber acerca del Parkinson y el manejo de los síntomas. En este video, aprenda cómo se trata y, lo más importante aún, cómo vivir mejor con la EP. 

7. Lunes de Atención Plena - Relájese y respire 

Descubra cómo la atención plena (mindfulness) y la respiración consciente pueden ayudar a reducir el estrés y mejorar su bienestar. En esta sesión de Lunes de Atención Plena aprenderá técnicas sencillas para relajarse, centrarse en el presente y cultivar un mayor equilibrio emocional en su vida diaria. 

8. Cambios de comportamiento y la enfermedad de Parkinson   

Explore la progresión de la enfermedad de Parkinson y su impacto en el estado de ánimo, la personalidad y el comportamiento en este video de Miércoles de Bienestar. 

9. Explorando terapias complementarias para el Parkinson 

Adéntrese en el mundo de las terapias complementarias y su papel en mejorar la calidad de vida de las personas con la EP. 

10. La nutrición y el Parkinson: Aprender a comer y cuidar de su alimentación  

El Dr. Ramón de Cangas, dietista y nutricionista, comparte consejos para ayudar a las personas con Parkinson a seguir una dieta saludable. 

Ver más videos en nuestro Canal de YouTube: Canal en Español: Recursos para ti.  

Educational Events

PD GENEration: Advancing Research, Empowering Lives

Virtual ( Zoom )
1:00 pm to 2:00 pm EST
FREE
REGISTER FOR VIRTUAL
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PDGENEration: Mapping the Future of Parkinson's Disease is transforming the landscape of Parkinson's research while empowering individuals with knowledge. This webinar will cover an overview of the PD GENEration study, including its mission and the exciting progress made so far. We will also provide a discussion of the future of PD GENEration and insights from a participant panel, featuring their personal stories and the impactful actions they have taken based on their genetic results.

Speakers

James Beck, PhD
Chief Scientific Officer, Parkinson's Foundation

Jennifer L. Verbrugge, MS, CGC
Licensed, Certified Genetic Counselor
Indiana University School of Medicine
Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics
Hereditary Genomics Division

 

There is no charge to attend, but registration is required. This program is open to people with Parkinson's, their family, friends, and the community.

We want to thank this webinar's sponsor, Prevail Therapeutics, for supporting our mission.

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PD Health @ Home is presented by the Light of Day Foundation, whose generosity has made this programming possible.

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This is a virtual program, taking place live, using the online Zoom platform. Instructions on joining the webinar are provided after registering.

Upcoming Events

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My PD Story

Patrick Exley making heart with hands
People with PD

Patrick Exley

I’d like to take you on a journey back to October 2011, when I ran the Silver Comet Half Marathon in 1:45:45, which I thought was not bad for a 35-year-old. But I wanted to conquer a full marathon next, so I plunged into training after a few days of rest. I was on mile 7 of a 10-mile run when my left leg locked up. It was as if that leg had a mind of its own.

I focused on stretching and more time off between runs. The same thing happened during a 6-mile run; and then a 2-miler; soon, I couldn’t run ¼ mile without my left leg locking up. It took 4 years of chasing this issue including many visits and tests with my orthopedist, podiatrist, general practitioner and neurologists before getting the early-onset Parkinson’s disease (PD) diagnosis in 2015 at the age 39.

I wasn’t satisfied with the subjective clinical diagnosis, so I had a DATscan in Jan 2016. This plus my levodopa response confirmed that it was indeed Parkinson’s disease.

I was ashamed and hid my diagnosis for about 4 years, but my symptoms progressed quickly. I was taking up to 24 doses of Levadopa per day as my off-time increased. My neurologist suggested I get vetted for deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery in 2019 and I finally had the surgery in 2022.

Now, Parkinson’s is an integral part of my life, but I refuse to let it define me. I’ve immersed myself in learning about the disease, volunteering and connecting with others who’ve shared my journey.

Each story inspired me to embrace my own. I’ve discovered new passions — like trail running, cycling, rock climbing and volunteering. I’ve learned to celebrate small victories, from mastering a new exercise to sharing musical experiences with friends.

This disease became part of my narrative, but it doesn’t overshadow the richness of life.

In the last few years I have become very involved in supporting Moving Day Atlanta as our Committee Chair, and take part in the Peachtree Road Race to support the Parkinson’s Foundation Georgia Chapter.

Now I am preparing for the challenge of a lifetime, tackling the 2025 Boston Marathon as a Parkinson’s Champions athlete through the generous support of Team Abbott.

Learn more about Abbott’s new DBS Ambassador Program.

Run as a Parkinson’s Champion today! Help raise funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s Foundation while competing in some of the world’s most popular endurance events.

Educational Events

Managing Changing Symptoms

10:00 am to 12:30 pm CDT
FREE
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Check-in and Resource Fair start at 9 a.m.
The program will be held from 10a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

After many years of good symptom management, Parkinson’s disease may become more challenging.  Learn how Parkinson’s symptoms may change over time and new strategies available for managing them.

This program is free. Lunch will be served.

Expert Speakers

Karuna Dewan, MD, FACS
LSU Health Shreveport, Ark-LA-Tex Center for Voice, Airway and Swallowing

Sarah Quintana, MS, L-SLP, CCC-SLP
LSU Health Shreveport, Ark-LA-Tex Center for Voice, Airway and Swallowing

Wendy Taylor, AGPC-CNP
WK Pierremont Neurology Clinic

Jamie Toms, MD
LSU Health Shreveport, Department of Neurosurgery

Stretch Break Provided by:

Julie Schwertfeger, PhD, DPT, MBA, CBIST
Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy, LSU Health Shreveport

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My PD Story

Kathy Blake sitting on a chair posing for a picture
People with PD

Kathleen Blake

“My commitment to raising Parkinson’s disease (PD) awareness is not just because I have the disease; it’s because of the growing number of people living with PD. We have to get this on people’s radar and reverse that upward trend,” said Kathleen (Kathy) Blake, MD, MPH, a retired physician who serves as vice chair of the Parkinson's Foundation People with Parkinson's Advisory Council. One way she helps raise PD awareness is by telling her story.   

Like many people, Kathy’s diagnosis was delayed. When she began noticing pain and reduced swinging of her left arm, she attributed these early symptoms to arthritis and aging. She experienced symptoms for five years before she received her diagnosis, seven years ago. 

Kathy’s diagnosis story begins when an astute newly minted physical therapist referred her to the movement disorders specialist who diagnosed her with Parkinson’s. After her neurologist said, “You have Parkinson's,” Kathy’s first question was, “How sure are you that it’s Parkinson's?” After reading everything she could about PD, Kathy was convinced that the diagnosis was correct.  

An initial course of physical therapy and a regular program of exercise changed everything. “If I exercise today, I will feel better tomorrow,” Kathy said. “If I don’t exercise, the stiffness is worse the next day. Another benefit of exercise has been the chance to meet so many other people who are dealing with Parkinson's and their caregivers, a huge boost for my spirits and my husband’s.” Five years ago, Kathy began PD medication because she needed more than exercise to help manage her symptoms.  

Her expanded support and care team is now comprised of family members, physicians, physical therapists, personal trainers, Pilates instructors and the Parkinson’s Foundation. She credits her team with keeping her moving, engaged and optimistic. 

Path to PD Research  

It took four years before Kathy was ready to publicly share her diagnosis. Today, she realizes that one consequence of hiding the disease is that most people only associate PD with its advanced stages. “People with Parkinson’s can have full and rewarding professional and personal lives, with and despite PD. Many of us are working alongside people with Parkinson’s, living next door to them, seeing them at the store, or volunteering with them. I want people’s impression of PD to be less restricted and more accurate.”  

Reflecting on her experience, Kathy wishes she had participated in PD research sooner. With new PD therapies always on the horizon, many pharmaceutical companies and researchers recruit participants who are in the early stages of PD. “I missed that chance. Because I didn’t talk about my PD for years, I lost that window of opportunity,” she said. 

Eventually, Kathy found her way to the Parkinson’s Foundation. She participates in the Foundation’s genetics study, PD GENEration: Mapping the Future of Parkinson’s. Kathy is one of the more than 20,000 people enrolled in the study thus far who have received a genetic test and counseling session at no cost, to learn whether she has a genetic tie to PD. 

Advice for People with Parkinson’s 

The Foundation’s website Parkinson.org consistently delivers a trove of reliable information to Kathy and her family. It is her go-to recommended resource for anyone new to Parkinson’s. “The website is full of information, not just for the person living with Parkinson's, but also for their families, scientists and physicians. Once you discover all this information, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. It’s important to know that you don’t have to consume and incorporate all of it into your life right away. You have time,” Kathy said. In her case, once she found the website, Kathy focused on exercise and medication.  

Kathy’s advice for people who have been living with PD for many years, like herself, is to be adaptable.  “Expect that how you take care of yourself will change over time. When that happens, don’t assume there isn’t something new that can help you, because increasingly, there is.” 

Kathy’s medical background gives her a unique point of view for helping people with PD communicate with their care team.  

“As a doctor, when you stand up and prepare to leave the exam room, that’s often when your patient asks their most important question, the one they’ve been afraid to ask. To overcome this, write down your top three concerns before your appointment,  whatever keeps you up at night, because they are what needs to be addressed.” – Kathy  

From her many years of practicing medicine, Kathy knows that many people are dissatisfied with the medical system. “People and doctors feel they don’t have the time they need with each other. This makes it even more important to prioritize your questions — and ideally have a family member or caregiver with you as a second set of ears to hear the answers.” 

Resist Isolating 

“Resist the impulse to isolate,” is what Kathy tells those who are learning how to manage PD symptoms. “Hopefully, once you come out of your shell, you can get involved in things like the Parkinson’s Foundation, Moving Day or Parkinson’s Revolution; Volunteering puts wind in your sails. Energy is generated by connectedness.” 

Volunteering has opened a new world to Kathy. “Parkinson’s is a club, that given the choice, we would not belong to it. That said, having PD has introduced me to an amazing cohort of people,” she said of her many volunteer engagements. 

“I applied to serve on the advisory council because a former member told me, ‘The Foundation staff and leadership really wants to hear from you; they listen, modify, and improve their programs based on what you say.’ I thought, I can help now; maybe five or 10 years from now I won't have the capacity. This is what I care about, and I’m doing it now,” Kathy said. 

There are many ways you can help us spread Parkinson’s Awareness right now. Visit our Parkinson’s Awareness Month page to find what works for you! 

Advancing Research

Actualización: Un nuevo estudio revela que fármacos como el Ozempic son ineficaces en el tratamiento del Parkinson

ozempic pen injection

Este mes de febrero, un nuevo estudio publicado en la revista médica The Lancet ha despertado importantes dudas acerca de la eficacia potencial de la clase de fármacos para la diabetes agonistas del receptor GLP-1 en el tratamiento de la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP).  

Un ensayo clínico de fase 3 evaluó el agonista del receptor de GLP-1 llamado Exenatida. El estudio, que constó de 194 participantes a quienes se dio seguimiento durante dos años, encontró que el uso diario de Exenatide no proporcionó ninguna mejora significativa para los síntomas del Parkinson en comparación con el placebo. Esta falta de mejora fue consistente en todos los grupos de edad, sexos y estadios de la EP. Los investigadores también realizaron tomografías computarizadas (CT scan) del cerebro antes y después del estudio en participantes seleccionados y descubrieron que la Exenatida no afectaba la actividad dopaminérgica en las regiones cerebrales relevantes para la EP. 

Estos resultados sugieren que los actuales medicamentos agonistas del receptor GLP-1 no son eficaces como tratamientos modificadores de la enfermedad de Parkinson. A medida que los científicos aprendan más acerca de la vía biológica del GLP-1 y cómo afecta la salud de las neuronas dopaminérgicas, es probable que en el futuro se desarrollen y se pongan a prueba nuevos medicamentos con GLP-1 específicamente diseñados para el Parkinson. 

¿Podrían los medicamentos para la diabetes como el Ozempic ser un tratamiento para el Parkinson? 

Un ensayo clínico de lixisenatida, un fármaco aprobado por la FDA en 2016 para tratar la diabetes, mostró potencial para reducir los síntomas motores en personas con Parkinson 

La enfermedad de Parkinson (EP) es un trastorno neurodegenerativo en el que las células cerebrales productoras de dopamina se descomponen lentamente con el paso del tiempo. Esta pérdida de dopamina provoca diversos síntomas motores, como temblor, rigidez, lentitud de movimientos y problemas con el equilibrio. Aunque los tratamientos actuales pueden ayudar a controlar muchos de los síntomas de la EP, no abordan las causas de la enfermedad y, por lo tanto, no pueden evitar su progresión.  

Nuevas investigaciones sugieren una posible relación entre la disminución de la sensibilidad del cerebro a la hormona insulina y la progresión del Parkinson. Esta observación ha llevado a los investigadores a estudiar si los medicamentos antidiabéticos que ayudan a controlar los niveles de insulina podrían ralentizar la progresión del Parkinson. 

Los fármacos Ozempic y Wegovy pertenecen a una clase de medicamentos para la diabetes llamados agonistas de los receptores GLP-1 que, junto con algunos otros medicamentos para la diabetes, han mostrado potencial para reducir el riesgo de desarrollar Parkinson en personas con diabetes. Estos fármacos imitan la acción de una hormona natural que regula los niveles de azúcar en sangre. 

Sin embargo, se desconoce si los fármacos agonistas del receptor GLP-1 pueden beneficiar a las personas con Parkinson que no tienen diabetes. 

Un reciente ensayo clínico, publicado en el New England Journal of Medicine, analizó si un agonista del GLP-1 llamado lixisenatida podría ofrecer un nuevo enfoque de tratamiento para las personas en los primeros estadios del Parkinson. El estudio mostró que la lixisenatida, que fue aprobada por la FDA en 2016 para ayudar a los diabéticos a controlar el azúcar en la sangre, ayudó con los síntomas motores en personas con la EP y podría ralentizar la progresión del Parkinson.  

Como parte de este estudio, un modelo de ratón del Parkinson demostró que la lixisenatida mejoraba los problemas motores y preservaba las células cerebrales, lo que sugiere que los agonistas del GLP-1 podrían tratar las causas subyacentes de la EP.  

Además, la lixisenatida no es el único agonista del receptor GLP-1 con potenciales aplicaciones terapéuticas para el Parkinson: al menos otros seis medicamentos similares están bajo evaluación actualmente como tratamiento potencial para la EP. Sin embargo, en comparación con la liraglutida y la semaglutida (como Wegovy), la lixisenatida parece ser más eficaz en atravesar la barrera hematoencefálica. 

Resultados del estudio 

El nuevo estudio, —un ensayo clínico de fase 2—, reclutó a 156 personas con Parkinson, que fueron asignadas aleatoriamente para recibir lixisenatida o un placebo. Los participantes fueron diagnosticados con Parkinson dentro de los tres años anteriores y estaban tomando medicamentos dopaminérgicos, como la levodopa y continuaron haciéndolo durante el ensayo. Para cada participante, los investigadores evaluaron los síntomas antes del tratamiento con la inyección diaria de placebo o lixisenatida y 12 meses después. 

Tras 12 meses de tratamiento, las personas que recibieron lixisenatida mostraron mejores resultados en sus síntomas motores en comparación con las que recibieron un placebo. Mientras que los síntomas motores del grupo de lixisenatida no cambiaron en comparación con el inicio del ensayo, el grupo de placebo experimentó un empeoramiento de sus síntomas.  

Tras 12 meses de tomar lixisenatida o un placebo, los participantes se sometieron a dos meses sin ningún tratamiento y se volvieron a evaluar los síntomas. El grupo de lixisenatida mostró mejores síntomas motores en comparación con el grupo de control después de dos meses, lo que sugiere que la lixisenatida puede tener un impacto positivo en la progresión de la enfermedad.  

Cabe destacar que los que recibieron lixisenatida tuvieron más efectos secundarios gastrointestinales: un 46% de los participantes que tomaron lixisenatida tuvieron náuseas y 13% experimentaron vómitos. Aproximadamente un tercio de los participantes (28 personas) que recibieron lixisenatida optaron por una dosis inferior durante el estudio debido a los efectos secundarios. 

Destacados 

  • En el estudio participaron 156 personas con Parkinson, que fueron asignadas aleatoriamente a recibir una inyección diaria de lixisenatida (un agonista del GLP-1) o un placebo. 

  • Tras un año de tratamiento, las personas que recibieron lixisenatida mostraron mejores resultados en sus síntomas motores en comparación con las que recibieron un placebo. 

  • La lixisenatida provocó efectos secundarios gastrointestinales en muchos participantes: un 46% tuvo náuseas y un 13% experimentó vómitos. 

¿Qué significa esto para los medicamentos del GLP-1 y el Parkinson? 

Este estudio puede indicar que ciertos agonistas del GLP-1 podrían ser beneficiosos para reducir ciertos síntomas del Parkinson. Estos prometedores resultados inspirarán más investigaciones sobre los efectos a largo plazo de la lixisenatida en la progresión de la EP.  

Este estudio tenía un tamaño de muestra pequeño y sólo evaluó el fármaco en los recién diagnosticados (diagnosticados en los últimos tres años). Se necesitan estudios más amplios, con un número significativamente mayor de participantes que vivan con rangos más amplios de los estadios de la EP, antes de que podamos establecer una conexión entre los agonistas del GLP-1 y el control de los síntomas o la progresión de la enfermedad.  

Por último, actualmente se están investigando muchos agonistas del GLP-1 para el tratamiento de la EP y otros fármacos similares han mostrado resultados menos prometedores en comparación con la lixisenatida. Se necesitan más investigaciones para comprender las diferencias entre los distintos agonistas del GLP-1 sobre los síntomas de la EP.  

¿Qué significan estos hallazgos para las personas con la EP en este momento? 

Actualmente, los agonistas del GLP-1 sólo están aprobados para el tratamiento de la diabetes y la obesidad. Las personas con Parkinson que también tienen diabetes y obesidad deben hablar con su médico antes de empezar a tomar un agonista del GLP-1. Actualmente no hay pruebas suficientes que respalden el uso de agonistas del GLP-1 como la lixisenatida como tratamiento para las personas con Parkinson que no tienen diabetes ni obesidad.  

Además, la pérdida de peso asociada a los agonistas del GLP-1 puede ser un problema para las muchas personas con Parkinson que experimentan una pérdida de peso involuntaria a lo largo de la enfermedad.  

Cabe destacar que la lixisenatida ya no está disponible en los EE.UU.  

Aprenda más 

La Parkinson’s Foundation cree en el empoderamiento de la comunidad de Parkinson a través de la educación. Aprenda más acerca de la EP y de los temas en este artículo a través de nuestros recursos mencionados abajo o llame a nuestra Línea de Ayuda gratuita al 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636), opción 3 para español, para obtener respuestas a sus preguntas acerca del Parkinson. 

Raise Awareness

From Fear to Care: How to Address Parkinson’s Hospital Risks

Female doctor talking to hospital patient in bed

For most people, being in the hospital can be stressful experience. However, people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) are at a higher risk of hospitalization and face many challenges while in the hospital. This year alone, four of every 12 people with PD will be hospitalized. It is important for all people with Parkinson’s to be aware of the risks, prepare ahead of time and know how to advocate for their needs while in the hospital.

When admitted into the hospital, people with PD may experience worsening or new symptoms. Confusion or thinking changes can develop because of stress, infection, fatigue, sleep disturbances, surgery or new medications. Fortunately, the Parkinson’s Foundation is here to help.

To raise awareness of common hospital challenges, we highlight three hospital experiences from people with Parkinson’s below. The Parkinson’s Foundation is committed to helping people like Cindy, Ron and Julie, receive better hospital care. We’re thankful for their willingness to share their share to help educate and empower our community.

Cindy’s Story

Cindy prepared for a routine surgery. An avoidable medication interaction still caused hallucinations. 

I recently had a total knee replacement. Beforehand I did everything I was told that was needed to prepare. I had gone to my primary doctor and my neurologist to get clearance and felt calm going into surgery.  

My neurologist wrote notes on what medications I should not take. But when I went to the hospital for my surgery, the nurse doing my intake didn’t know I had Parkinson’s disease (PD). Not one person I spoke to had looked at the notes my doctor sent. I was left feeling fearful and alone.  

I went in thinking maybe there would be some glitch during my hospitalization, but it wasn’t just one thing. I didn’t get my Parkinson’s medications when I woke up from surgery, they didn’t have my medications available that night and they gave me a medication that I should have never been given, which led to a major reaction. 

After being discharged, at home I took the pain medication prescribed at the hospital and became delirious. I was hallucinating and had a 103-degree fever. My husband and I didn’t know what was wrong. I found out later that I had a medication interaction caused by Serotonin Syndrome, which is rare but can be fatal. This was a worst-case scenario for me and set my recovery back.  

I was shocked that this happened even after everything I did to prepare for my surgery. I am a PD advocate, and I am very involved in the Parkinson’s community. I heard bad hospitalization stories before, but you just don't realize how bad things can be until they happen to you.  

I’m happy to share that since this happened, I spoke to the patient liaison about my experience, and have since joined their patient advocacy council. Through participating I will be able to help the hospital address the problems I experienced and help ensure that others will not go through what I went through.  

Cindy shares her story in this video:

Julie’s Story

An unexpected reaction to THC sent Julie to the emergency department in an unknown city. When she arrived, the team didn’t believe she had Parkinson’s.

Julie Obreiter selfie

Julie was on a cross-country road trip with her daughter when she began experiencing severe dyskinesia and cramping. This was a fairly common experience for her, and sometimes, she used THC (a form of medical marijuana) to find relief. However, when she did this time, she became unresponsive, and her daughter had to pull over to call 9-1-1.  

When they arrived at the hospital, the emergency room (ER) team didn’t believe her when she said that she had Parkinson’s disease. They refused to perform any tests or allow her to take her Parkinson’s medications. Unfortunately, it took several hours to convince the medical team that Parkinson’s medications were essential.  

Once they realized that her Parkinson’s medications were not street drugs, she was finally allowed to take them get her symptoms under control.  

Read Julie’s Full Story Now

Ron and Amy’s Story

Ron and Amy prepared for an emergency room visit. But when Covid-19 sent Ron to the hospital it still took too long for him to receive his Parkinson’s medications. 

Ron McConnell in hospital bed holding a sign with Amy McConnell next to him

Ron and Amy experienced an unthinkable hospital stay in 2023 after Ron, diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2019, developed a severe case of Covid-19.  

Prior to the emergency visit, they prepared for the unexpected with resources from the Parkinson’s Foundation Hospital Safety Guide. They asked for these materials to be scanned into his electronic chart, knowing that it was essential that the medical team understood Ron’s diagnosis and the importance of administering his Parkinson’s medications in a timely manner.  

Despite being assured that Ron’s chart had been updated, they later learned that this had not been the case — the medical team was unaware of his Parkinson’s diagnosis. 

Despite Amy’s pleading, Ron did not receive any of his Parkinson’s medications on time. After going into respiratory failure, a life-or-death situation, a new doctor took over, and made time to listen to Amy. He agreed to administer Parkinson’s medications and took great care of Ron for several days throughout the recovery period. In the end, Ron recovered and the new doctor declared that by advocating for Ron’s Parkinson’s needs, Amy had made him an even better doctor.  

Read Ron and Amy’s Full Story Now

Hospital Safety Tools Designed to Help  

Prepare for your next planned or unplanned hospital stay with the below resources designed to help you.  

  1. Share the Parkinson’s Care Summary for Health Professionals with attending hospital staff (from nurses to doctors) to alert them of medications to avoid and safe alternatives.    

  1. Keep the Medical Alert Card in your wallet so that you have it in case you need to show that you have Parkinson’s.  

  1. Bring your Doctor’s Letter: Parkinson’s Hospital Care Needs, signed by your primary Parkinson’s care provider, to emphasize the importance of getting your Parkinson’s medications.  

  2. Document details following a difficult hospital stay with the Processing a Challenging Hospital Experience online form. Use it to reflect and record what did not go well and what you want others to understand.

Most of these tools and more can be found in the Parkinson’s Foundation Hospital Safety Guide, designed to help you prepare for and navigate a hospital stay. 

Order or download a free copy of the Hospital Safety Guide now.

Fundraising Events

2025 El Tour de Tucson

6:00 am to 6:00 pm MST
Participant in Tucson Race

The Parkinson's Foundation is an official charity partner for the 2025 El Tour de Tucson. By signing up to ride as a Parkinson's Champion you commit to raising funds and awareness for the Parkinson's Foundation, and in return you get access to a free entry (bib) to the race in addition to tons of other fun benefits and perks. Learn more at PDChampionsTucson.org

Fundraising Commitments:
•    Century (102m) - $1,500
•    Metric Century (63m) - $1,000
•    Half Century (32m) - $750
•    Honorary Champion - $500

El Tour de Tucson is one of the premier bicycling events in the country.  If you participate in this year’s event, you won’t be alone given that annually over 9,500 cyclists participate in the renowned and popular event. Charity, community, health and wellness are what Perimeter Bicycling and El Tour are all about. They all go hand-in-hand when it comes to building awareness for a bike ride that has been part of the Tucson community for nearly four decades. The routes start and end in downtown Tucson, and engage parts of the majestic Sonoran desert including Davis Monthan Air Force Base, the mountainous and saguaro lined vistas of Old Spanish Trail & historic Colossal Cave. Some routes will also pass through the communities of Corona de Tucson, Vail, Sahuarita and Green Valley.

Are you looking for a fun way to volunteer for the Parkinson's Foundation & raise your voice while raising awareness? Come out and cheer on our incredible athletes! Learn more and apply at Parkinson.org/ChampionsCheer.

If you have questions, send us an email at JStaenberg@Parkinson.org. For more information about the race itself, visit the El Tour de Tucson Homepage.
 

 

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Fundraising Events

2026 Tour de Scottsdale

6:00 am to 6:00 pm CDT
Participant in Tucson Race

The Parkinson's Foundation is an official charity partner for the 2026 Tour de Scottsdale. By signing up to ride as a Parkinson's Champion you commit to raising funds and awareness for the Parkinson's Foundation. For the Tour de Scottsdale you have 2 registration options. Register at the $1,500 level and we will provide you with an entry to the race or purchase your own entry and join us as an honorary champion at the $500 level.

Fundraising Commitments:

  • VIP Entry (bib from the Parkinson's Foundation): $1,500
  • Honorary Rider (buy your own bib): $500
    • Register directly on the Tour de Scottsdale site

The HonorHealth Tour de Scottsdale offers challenging and scenic courses that will undoubtedly push the limits of cyclists. The Tour de Scottsdale has grown from just a few hundred participants in its early years to attracting thousands of riders from all over the world today! This incredible growth reflects not only the beauty of the route but the strength of the cycling community that comes together each year. The Metric Century Ride circumnavigates the McDowell Mountains riding through Scottsdale, Rio Verde and Fountain Hills. The Half Century is a scenic routes through Scottsdale, AZ that circles Pinnacle Peak.

Are you looking for a fun way to volunteer for the Parkinson's Foundation & raise your voice while raising awareness? Come out and cheer on our incredible athletes! Learn more and apply at Parkinson.org/ChampionsCheer.

If you have questions, send us an email. For more information about the race itself, visit the Tour de Scottsdale Homepage.
 

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