- Can My Husband be Treated For Both Parkinsons Disease and ADHD?
QUESTION:
Dear Dr. Heller:
My husband, who is in the latter stage of Parkinson’s Disease, was recently seen by an American Psychiatrist while visiting his neurologist. It is quite apparent that my husband has been suffering from ADHD since childhood and was never treated for it. He is 62 years of age. It has been suggested that he begin treatment with Ritalin in conjunction with his Parkinson’s medications. I have been trying to locate information on the Internet about this subject but have been unsuccessful. Could you please provide any information you may have or a web site where I could obtain the information.
ANSWER:
While Im not aware of any websites, theres no reason a trial of treatment cant be made. Ritalin affects the Dopamine D2 receptor, and may cause a worsening of the shakes. The various medications will likely need to be tried to see how he does.
I suspect hell do better from his Parkinsons standpoint once the ADHD is treated as it will lower his stress level. You can find the official criteria for ADHD on my Website. I have many scientific studies available for you near that location. Id also highly recommend you check the screening test I use for my patients, since ADHD rarely occurs by itself and treating everything comprehensively is very helpful.
