New Survey Results Show More Awareness of Adjunctive Treatment for Parkinson Disease is Needed
Results from Impact of OFF Time on People with Parkinson Disease and Their Care Partners survey show that a majority of participants with Parkinson disease (PD) and their care partners (n=240) are significantly impacted by OFF time.
The survey showed 86% of participants with PD (n=113) experience OFF time daily and a majority reported it has a significant impact on activities. Although 3 out of 4 participants (78%) report their current treatment plan is effective,56% say they further symptomatic improvement is possible.
Most of the survey participants (96%) are interested in new treatment options for their PD and 94% of them would speak to their provider about adjunctive therapies. The inaccurate belief that adding adjunctive therapy means their PD is progressing was shared by 72% of participants. From the survey, Uncertainty about treatment efficacy was expressed by 49% and 30% did not feel they had enough information about other additional treatments.
"At PMD Alliance, we are passionate about connecting directly with the PD community about their experiences, challenges, and strategies to live well after a diagnosis. We hear again and again about the impact of OFF time, from both people living with the disease, and their loved ones and care partners," said Andrea Merriam, acting chief executive officer, PMD Alliance. "Good communication between families and healthcare providers is crucial to recognize the signs of OFF time and stay informed about adjunctive treatment options so intervention can occur early in the treatment plan, if needed."
Individuals with PD may not be aware of the availability and use of adjunctive treatment options for use to address return of PD symptoms since general acceptance of OFF time is part of the disease.
"The results of this survey reinforce that while numerous therapeutic options exist for our patients, these therapies may be under-utilized. We need to better explore what 'effective' means for each patient, and address what concerns may prevent them from seeking better symptom control," said Jill Farmer, DO, MPH, assistant professor of Neurology and director of the Parkinson Disease & Movement Disorder Program at the Global Neurosciences Institute in Lawrenceville, NJ. "It is our duty as physicians to make patients aware of available options for symptom improvement and when these options include medication, we need a thoughtful conversation about the potential benefits and risks of incorporating adjunctive therapy as part of their treatment plan."