Q: My father is suffering from Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). This was detected 6 months back. He is 63 years old. Recently he has shown some signs of deterioration and the doctor advised some medicines, which make him feel better. The medicines are Amantrel; Zapiz-0.25; Ropark0.25 and Pacitane. Are the above medicines correctly prescribed for PSP or patients of Parkinson's? Do they have steroids in them or are they sedatives? What can I do to help him recover or become stable?

A:Pacitane (trihexyphenidyl) is the conventional medicine for Parkinsonism. Zapiz (clonazepam) is basically an anti-epileptic drug though it is also used in anxiety. Ropark is the brand name of a medicine called ropinirole (also sold under the brand name of Ropitor). It is indicated in the treatment of Parkinsonism, either alone or in combination with levodopa. Generally it is given along with levodopa. Its side effects include: GI upset, dyspepsia, pharyngitis, constipation, pain, sweating, somnolence, headache, fatigue, asthenia, nausea, dizziness, abnormal vision, aggravated symptoms of Parkinsonism, pain in joints, tremors, anxiety, dry mouth, nervousness, leg oedema, syncope, low BP, low heart rate, dyskinesia, hypokinesia, paraesthesia, confusion, hallucinations, and sudden onset of sleep (important to warn patients). There are a large number of therapies for Parkinsonism. The attending physician should be able to select appropriate medication with least side effects.