Program Notes: January 23, 2025
Last updated on February 5, 2025.
Jan
23
Ask the Doctor: Maria Cristina Ospina, MD
Last updated on January 20, 2025. A conversation with Maria Cristina Ospina M.D., a Movement Disorder Specialist at the Regional Parkinson Center in Phoenix, AZ. In response to the concerns voiced at the September meeting – primarily by newly diagnosed people …
Many attendees came with questions. A large portion of the meeting was spent on the newer infusion treatments that are becoming available, including those from AbbVie and Supernus.
Here is a recap a few of the outstanding points that stuck out for your use and information.
- AbbVie Vialev™️: Parkinson’s News Today has background information about the already available AbbVie system. Be sure to talk with your MD Neurologist about this form of medication disbursement.
- Supernus Onapgo: Parkinson’s News Today has also covered the Supernus system. Be sure to talk with your MD Neurologist about this form of medication disbursement.
- Drooling? Pick up some hard candy or lollipops and pop one of those in your mouth to help train yourself to remember how to swallow. We’ll be bringing some to our “in-person” meetings from now on.
- Dental Hygiene: Make sure you go to the dentist for a dental cleaning 3 times a year (every 4 months) rather than once or twice a year if you are taking some form of Carbidopa/Levodopa. This medication has a chemical reaction with your saliva which may cause increased decay to your teeth.
- Constipation: According to Dr. Ospina, if you are suffering from PD, your brain cells for influencing the digestion track may already be affected. Try taking a stool softener as part of your everyday routine. Depending on your situation, you may need to do this twice a day. Adjust the dosage or take as much as needed beyond the direction on the packaging to suite your needs and conditions.
- Add Naps! An hour-long nap is A-OK if needed.