A patient newly diagnosed with Parkinson disease is prescribed an oral dopamine agonist. Which precaution is most important to teach the patient and family about the timing for taking this drug?

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It is important to take the dopamine agonist on an empty stomach 30 to 60 minutes before meals to allow for optimal absorption. If taken with food, especially high protein meals, it can interfere with the absorption and effectiveness of the medication. Timing the dose with symptoms or first thing in the morning may not be as crucial as taking it on an empty stomach.

A Patient Newly Diagnosed with Parkinson Disease Is Prescribed an Oral