About
Nuplazid was approved in 2016 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for hallucinations (seeing things that aren't there) and delusions (false, often paranoid, beliefs) in Parkinson's disease. Hallucinations and delusions are non motor symptoms that can but don't always, happen. They are more common in people who live with disease for many years or decades and in people who experience significant memory and thinking (cognitive) changes, or dementia. Nuplazid can be used regardless of whether cognitive changes occur.
Pros
Nuplazid is known as an “antipsychotic” medication. The drug works on the serotonin brain chemical system and does not impact dopamine. It can, therefore, ease hallucinations and delusions without worsening motor symptoms. Nuplazid also may help a person sleep better at night and stay more alert during the day, as well as decrease a care partner's stress.
Cons and Complications
The most common side effects of are leg swelling, nausea and confusion. The most significant potential side effect is an increased risk of death in elderly people with dementia. (This is a risk with all antipsychotic medications.) The potential benefits and risks of medication as well as the potential benefits and risks of not treating symptoms that may interfere with you or your loved ones' quality of life.
The medical information contained in this article is for general information purposes only. The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research has a policy of refraining from advocating, endorsing or promoting any drug therapy, course of treatment, or specific company or institution. It is crucial that care and treatment decisions related to Parkinson's disease and any other medical condition be made in consultation with a physician or other qualified medical professional.