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Does Parkinson's Cause Obsession.

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭
Little Valley, NY
January 25, 2024
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Yes, Parkinson's disease can cause obsessive behaviors. These behaviors are often linked to the effect of Parkinson's medications on dopamine in the brain. Dopamine agonist drugs, which act like dopamine, can boost the brain's reward system, leading to obsessive symptoms and impulsive behaviors. At least 14 percent of Show Full Answer

Yes, Parkinson's disease can cause obsessive behaviors. These behaviors are often linked to the effect of Parkinson's medications on dopamine in the brain. Dopamine agonist drugs, which act like dopamine, can boost the brain's reward system, leading to obsessive symptoms and impulsive behaviors. At least 14 percent of people with Parkinson's experience these issues, especially those taking both a dopamine agonist and [[treatment:levodopa/carbidopa:55d534f51fcaa397470006dd]].

For more details, you can refer to the following points from the knowledge base:
- Medications Involved: Dopamine agonists such as ropinirole, pramipexole, and rotigotine.
- Common Behaviors: Gambling, overspending, increased sex drive, and other impulsive actions.
- Treatment: Decreasing or stopping a dopamine agonist and switching to levodopa extended-release often helps alleviate these symptoms.

Always consult with a doctor if new behaviors are troubling.

July 23, 2024

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