[Continuous dopaminergic stimulation - clinical experience].

Both disease progression and pulsatile stimulation of dopaminergic receptors are responsible for development of fluctuations and dyskinesia in about 50% of patients with Parkinson disease (PD) after 4-6 years of therapy with levodopa. In order to prevent motor complications, the ideal therapy should secure continuous dopaminergic stimulation (CDS). The concept of CDS is supported by the results of both experimental and clinical studies. Several treatment options are available to achieve CDS. Dopamine agonists have a longer half-life than levodopa and the development of dyskinesia is delayed when they are used as monotherapy in early PD. Continuous delivery of agonists can be improved with prolonged-release oral preparations, a transdermal delivery system or continuous subcutaneous infusion. Continuous enteral infusion of levodopa is another way to achieve CDS and it is very effective in reducing motor complications in advanced PD.