Dextromethorphan for the Treatment of Parkinson's Disease and Similar Conditions of the Nervous System
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2001-06-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
This study is designed to determine whether dextromethorphan, a drug commonly found in cough
medicine, is beneficial and safe for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and other diseases
that might share biochemical abnormalities with Parkinson's disease.
Patients with Parkinson's disease are missing the chemical neurotransmitter dopamine. This
occurs as a result of destructive changes in an area of the brain responsible for making
dopamine, the basal ganglia. Rhythmical muscular tremors, rigidity of movement, shuffling
footsteps, droopy posture, and a mask-like expression on the face characterize Parkinson's
disease.
Researchers believe that dextromethorphan may be able to safely modify psychomotor function
of patients with Parkinson's Disease.
Phase:
Phase 2
Details
Lead Sponsor:
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)