Parkinson's Drug Pramipexole Impairs Decision-Making by Hyperactivating Brain Region

New research reveals that Pramipexole, while effective for Parkinson's symptoms, can lead to risky behaviors by affecting the external globus pallidus.

• Pramipexole (PPX) is a drug used to treat Parkinson's disease by mimicking dopamine's function.
• Studies on mice show that PPX hyperactivates the external globus pallidus (GPe), leading to poor decision-making.
• This hyperactivation results in risky behaviors such as gambling, binge eating, and compulsive shopping.
• Researchers suggest targeting the GPe to develop new treatments that reduce these cognitive side effects.
• The findings aim to improve awareness and quality of life for Parkinson's patients, their families, and caregivers.

2 Articles

Tech Explorist Technology Networks