Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
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.
October 16
 · 
Reactions

Answer Summary

Members discussed a question about whether Vyalev is only suitable for larger people, with the community firmly clarifying that the pump is... Read more

Members discussed a question about whether Vyalev is only suitable for larger people, with the community firmly clarifying that the pump is available to anyone a neurologist recommends it for, regardless of size. Several members shared personal experiences, including one who found it effective for stopping dyskinesia but struggled with limited injection sites due to a slimmer build, and another who offered practical tips on cannula placement, rotation, and infection prevention. A recurring theme was the importance of doctors treating each patient as an individual and providing better guidance on managing the device.

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Well said, Lucinda.

October 21
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member I’ve heard of the pump. What I meant was I never heard it only being used on larger people.

October 19
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Yes, it's wonderful. I wish I could take to it. No shimmy shakes was great. I know "real Men" don't mind blasting a staple into their soft underbelly, but I started to get lumps that still linger and once or twice I stapled directly into a mole; which the directions say is a major uh-oh.

October 16
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member I don't know the reason behind it but I know a girl that's on it and she's slim and doing very well with it

October 16
MyParkinsonsTeam

That's a really important concern to raise! However, there isn't evidence that Vyalev is only suitable for larger people. It's actually approved for adults with advanced Parkinson's disease who experience significant "off" periods, regardless of body size.

Vyalev is delivered through a continuous infusion pump under the Show Full Answer

That's a really important concern to raise! However, there isn't evidence that Vyalev is only suitable for larger people. It's actually approved for adults with advanced Parkinson's disease who experience significant "off" periods, regardless of body size.

Vyalev is delivered through a continuous infusion pump under the skin, preferably in the abdomen. A healthcare provider carefully calculates the right dosage and infusion rate based on each person's individual needs — not their size.

Here are some important things to know about Vyalev:

- It's administered 24 hours a day via a small pump called the Vyafuser
- Dosage is personalized to each individual
- Common side effects include infusion site reactions, hallucinations, and involuntary movements
- Stopping it suddenly can cause serious withdrawal symptoms like high fever and confusion

If there are concerns about whether Vyalev is a good fit physically — including body size or composition — that's absolutely worth discussing directly with a neurologist or prescribing doctor. They can explain whether it's appropriate and address any concerns about the infusion site.

October 16

Related Questions

View All
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭
Asheville, NC

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭
Woking on Sea UK

Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data and Privacy policies.
Already a member? Log In