Clipping Board » Drug Poisoning ─ It is necessary to be aware of the toxic side effects before taking medication.
Reporters Chen Yuanchun and Ke Jiajie / Taipei Report
Dopamine agonists used to treat Parkinson's disease have reportedly caused incredible side effects abroad, such as heightened libido and changes in sexual orientation. Domestic doctors say they have yet to encounter cases of sexual orientation changes, but a small number of patients do experience increased libido as a side effect.
Patients with Parkinson's disease, like the renowned musician Li Tai-hsiang, whose hands and feet tremble involuntarily, often take dopamine agonists as treatment. However, French media has reported that some patients exhibit abnormal behaviors after taking the medication, including theft, gambling, changes in sexual orientation, and even heightened sexual desire.
Renowned musician Li Tai-hsiang said, "I haven’t experienced any strange side effects!"
While Li claims no unusual symptoms, domestic doctors confirm that a small number of younger patients do experience increased libido as a side effect. Dr. Wu Yu-li, Director of Neurology and Epilepsy at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, stated, "After taking this medication, patients may find their movements easier, but they may also experience heightened sexual desire."
Reviewing the warnings on dopamine agonist labels, most caution about potential mental confusion. However, the Department of Health has decided to issue a notice reminding doctors of other possible side effects. Doctors also emphasize that patients who experience side effects usually show identifiable risk factors.
Dr. Chen Rou-xian, Director of Neurology at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, explained, "Patients who develop symptoms earlier, have more severe conditions, or have a longer disease duration—especially those who, in addition to typical Parkinson’s symptoms, also have pre-existing mood disorders—are more susceptible."
Other high-risk groups include younger patients or those on higher medication doses. Parkinson’s patients are advised to seek medical attention immediately if abnormal behaviors arise and discuss with their doctors whether a change in medication is necessary.
Source: http://www. nownews. com/ 2007/ 12/ 10/ 327- 2199667. htm
Parkinson's Drugs Boost Libido, Alter Orientation?
Dopamine agonists used to treat Parkinson's disease have reportedly caused incredible side effects abroad, such as heightened libido and changes in sexual orientation. Domestic doctors say they have yet to encounter cases of sexual orientation changes, but a small number of patients do experience increased libido as a side effect.
Patients with Parkinson's disease, like the renowned musician Li Tai-hsiang, whose hands and feet tremble involuntarily, often take dopamine agonists as treatment. However, French media has reported that some patients exhibit abnormal behaviors after taking the medication, including theft, gambling, changes in sexual orientation, and even heightened sexual desire.
Renowned musician Li Tai-hsiang said, "I haven’t experienced any strange side effects!"
While Li claims no unusual symptoms, domestic doctors confirm that a small number of younger patients do experience increased libido as a side effect. Dr. Wu Yu-li, Director of Neurology and Epilepsy at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, stated, "After taking this medication, patients may find their movements easier, but they may also experience heightened sexual desire."
Reviewing the warnings on dopamine agonist labels, most caution about potential mental confusion. However, the Department of Health has decided to issue a notice reminding doctors of other possible side effects. Doctors also emphasize that patients who experience side effects usually show identifiable risk factors.
Dr. Chen Rou-xian, Director of Neurology at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, explained, "Patients who develop symptoms earlier, have more severe conditions, or have a longer disease duration—especially those who, in addition to typical Parkinson’s symptoms, also have pre-existing mood disorders—are more susceptible."
Other high-risk groups include younger patients or those on higher medication doses. Parkinson’s patients are advised to seek medical attention immediately if abnormal behaviors arise and discuss with their doctors whether a change in medication is necessary.
Source: http://www. nownews. com/ 2007/ 12/ 10/ 327- 2199667. htm
2009/03/13 23:43