A patient with Parkinson's disease is taking levodopa/carbidopa [Sinemet]. The prescriber orders bromocriptine [Parlodel] to treat dyskinesias. The nurse notes that the patient is agitated,and the patient reports having frequent nightmares. The nurse will contact the provider to discuss:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Bromocriptine is used to treat levodopa-induced dyskinesias and has dose-dependent psychologic side effects. The nurse should suggest reducing the dose of this drug to minimize these side effects. Adding an antipsychotic medication is not indicated. Cabergoline is not approved for this use. Reducing the dose of levodopa/carbidopa is not indicated.

A Patient with Parkinson's Disease Is Taking Levodopa/carbidopa [Sinemet]