Parkinson's Disease

Frequently Asked Questions

14. How effective is levodopa?

People with Parkinson's disease often see dramatic improvement in their symptoms after starting levodopa therapy. The medication is often so effective that some people may temporarily forget they have Parkinson's during the early stages of the disease. But levodopa is not a cure. Although it can reduce the symptoms, it does not replace lost nerve cells or stop the loss of brain cells that causes the disease. And not all symptoms respond equally to levodopa. It usually helps most with bradykinesia (slowness of movement) and rigidity. Problems with balance and other non-motor symptoms may not be helped at all.