That's a really important question to ask before your DaTscan. The short answer is: please don't stop either medication without specific guidance from your doctor first.
Stopping Sinemet (levodopa/carbidopa) or ropinirole suddenly can be risky. Abruptly discontinuing these medications can cause a serious condition called Show Full Answer
That's a really important question to ask before your DaTscan. The short answer is: please don't stop either medication without specific guidance from your doctor first.
Stopping Sinemet (levodopa/carbidopa) or ropinirole suddenly can be risky. Abruptly discontinuing these medications can cause a serious condition called neuroleptic malignant-like syndrome, which involves a sudden and severe worsening of Parkinson's symptoms. Here's what's worth knowing about DaTscans and Parkinson's medications:
- A DaTscan works by detecting dopamine activity in the brain, not by measuring how much medication is in your system
- In most cases, Parkinson's medications do not need to be stopped before a DaTscan
- Your neurologist or the imaging center should give you specific pre-scan instructions
The best step is to call your doctor's office directly and ask whether you need to adjust your medications before the scan. Never reduce or stop a prescription medication without their direct approval — especially after 5 years on these treatments.
July 20
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