Parkinson's Medication Guide

Medication is an important part of your overall care. Choosing when to start medication for Parkinson’s varies from person to person. A good rule of thumb is to start medication when your Parkinson’s symptoms become restricting or disruptive in some way. In addition, if you are starting to make accommodations or are giving up activities you’ve previously enjoyed, it is time to consider medication.

There are many different classes of medications that offer options for people with mild to advanced symptoms. Treatment discoveries are also progressing at a rapid pace, and new medications are continually added to this growing list.

Currently, medication treatment is typically divided into motor and non-motor symptom categories. Here, you can learn about the different types of Parkinson’s medications, the names of common Parkinson’s medications, and the symptoms that can be managed by using these medications. Always talk to your physician if your medications aren’t working or you’re interested in trying something new.

Note: In 2023, the manufacturer of Kynmobi withdrew the medication from the market in the United States and Canada due to "limited utilization."

Pills on table

Click on the button below to view types of medications and the symptoms they treat. Then, click on the type to see information on individual medications.

Edited by Dr. Aaron Haug

Dr. Haug was born and raised in Kansas. He attended undergraduate at Creighton University and then earned his medical degree at the University of Kansas. He completed his neurology residency as well as a fellowship in movement disorders at the University of Colorado, including a year as Chief Resident. His medical interests include Parkinson’s, tremor, and other movement disorders, as well as deep brain stimulation (DBS) and botulinum toxin injections for the treatment of neurological conditions. Outside the office, he likes to spend time with his wife and kids, run, ski, and follow Colorado Rockies baseball. 

Medication By Type & Symptom

Medication for Motor Symptoms

Medication for Non-motor Symptoms

Parkinson's-related Depression and Anxiety
Other Non-motor Symptoms

Medications to Avoid or to Use with Caution

Learn about medications to avoid or use with caution here.

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The Medication Guide is included in the print and digital versions of the Every Victory Counts manual. To get your complimentary copy, click here.

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