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Real members of MyParkinsonsTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Do you have days when it seems your meds have no effect? What do you do to handle it?

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭
Gloucester Point, VA
May 31
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Answer Summary

Members responding to the question about medication effectiveness on tough days shared a range of coping strategies, from carefully sticking... Read more

Members responding to the question about medication effectiveness on tough days shared a range of coping strategies, from carefully sticking to a medication schedule and never leaving home without their meds, to resting on the couch and avoiding driving when symptoms are bad. Several members pointed to exercise as a helpful tool, noting that going to the gym or taking walks seemed to improve their day and could help ease anxiety by boosting natural mood chemicals. A recurring theme was the importance of talking openly with doctors about adjusting dosages, recognizing when other conditions may be adding to symptoms, and giving yourself grace on difficult days.

MyParkinsonsTeam

Yes, many people with Parkinson's experience days when their medications don't seem to work as expected. This is sometimes called a "dose failure" or an unpredictable "off" period, and it's more common than you might think.

A MyParkinsonsTeam member described it well: "One day your meds work like a charm. Two days later Show Full Answer

Yes, many people with Parkinson's experience days when their medications don't seem to work as expected. This is sometimes called a "dose failure" or an unpredictable "off" period, and it's more common than you might think.

A MyParkinsonsTeam member described it well: "One day your meds work like a charm. Two days later they don't kick in for hours. The next day they are working great again. It's the inconsistency that makes daily living difficult sometimes." There are several things that can help on those tough days:

- Timing meals carefully — Try taking medications at least 30 minutes before or 60 minutes after eating
- Limiting protein near dose time — Protein can compete with levodopa absorption
- Tracking symptoms — Keeping notes helps your doctor adjust your dosing schedule
- Resting when needed — Listen to your body; nap if tired, and be active when feeling good
- Talking to your doctor — They may suggest dosage adjustments, add-on medications, or alternative delivery methods like inhaled levodopa (Inbrija) for sudden "off" periods

The key is not to get discouraged. Bad days happen, and they don't define every day ahead.

May 31
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member - exercise is a good way to deal with anxiety and depression. Serotonin and endorphins can help replace the missing natural dopamine.

June 3
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

I noticed that if I go to the gym.I have a better today than if I don't.

June 2
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Rest, really don't have many choices here ... when that happens it hits hard, I'm basically inoperable at that point ... The only choice is to take an extra dose and pray it doesn't go the other way and go total dyskinesia time!! My thoughts here are from a segment I watch from ParkDoc (knowing we have similar issues with digestion), she was saying meds are absorbed in small intestines not stomach, so if things are not moving along well the meds don't get to the optimal absorption area in time and basically doesn't work as well from stomach ... hope this is useful thoughts and prayers for all of us!!!

June 1
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

OH!! My God, I never knew there is still hope after many years of suffering from Parkinson’s Disease. This is a very faithful day in my life that I will forever remember. While searching online for help with PD, I came in contact with Prof. Dr. Bas Bloem at Health Med Lab Clinic, who assisted me during one of the most difficult periods of my life.
If you or your loved one is experiencing Parkinson’s Disease challenges, you may contact him directly through Google Hangouts or email for consultation and professional guidance. Speak with him through video call, explain your condition, and seek medical advice.
Email: healthmedlab @ gmail com
Always ensure you consult qualified medical professionals before starting any treatment or therapy.

June 4

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