Monday, October 31, 2011

HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU YOGA

Yoga is a 5000 year old practice which involves the physical, mental and spiritual discipline riginating in ancient India. The goal of yoga, or of the person practicing yoga, is to achieve a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility. It is associated with meditative practices in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.

Within Hindu philosophy, the word yoga is used to refer to one of the six orthodox (āstika) schools of Hindu philosophy. Yoga in this sense is based on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and is also known as Rāja Yoga to distinguish it from later schools. Patanjali's system is discussed and elaborated upon in many classical Hindu texts, and has also been influential in Buddhism and Jainism. The Bhagavadgita introduces distinctions such as Jnana Yoga ("yoga based on knowledge") vs. Karma Yoga ("yoga based on action"). Other systems of philosophy introduced in Hinduism during the medieval period are Bhakti Yoga, and Hatha Yoga.

Yoga (Devanagari:योगा) ) is also a term for a range of traditional systems of physical exercise and meditation in Hinduism.

Modified versions of the physical exercises in Hatha Yoga have become popular as a kind of low-impact physical exercise, and are used for therapeutic purposes. "Yoga" in this sense, in common parlance, refers to the physical exercises, i.e. the asanas or postures. Aspects of meditation are sometimes also included.

Both the meditative and the exercise components of yoga show promise for non-specific health benefits. According to an article in the Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine, the system of Hatha Yoga believes that prana, or healing "life energy" is absorbed into the body through the breath, and can treat a wide variety of illnesses and complaints.

Yoga has also been studied as an intervention for many conditions, including back pain, stress, and depression. A survey released in December 2008 by the US National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that yoga was the 6th most commonly used alternative therapy in the United States during 2007, with 6.1 percent of the population participating. The physical asana of Hatha Yoga have a tradition that goes back to the 15th century, but they were not widely practiced in India prior to the early 20th century. Hatha Yoga was advocated by a number of late 19th to early 20th century gurus in India, including Sri Krishnamacharya in south India, Swami Sivananda in the north, Sri Yogendra in Bombay, and Swami Kuvalyananda in Lonavala.

In the 1960s, western interest in Hindu spirituality reached its peak, giving rise to a great number of Neo-Hindu schools specifically advocated to a western public. Among the teachers of Hatha yoga who were active in the west in this period were B.K.S. Iyengar, K. Pattabhi Jois, and Swami Vishnu-devananda, and Swami Satchidananda.  A second "yoga boom" followed in the 1980s, as Dean Ornish, a follower of Swami Satchidananda, connected yoga to heart health, legitimizing yoga as a purely physical system of health exercises outside of counter culture or esotericism circles, and unconnected to a religious denomination.

Since then, yoga has been used as supplementary therapy for diverse conditions such as cancer, diabetes, asthma, and AIDS. The scope of medical issues where yoga is used as a complementary therapy continues to grow including Parkinson's disease. This can be demostrated in the recently concluded First Annual Convention of Pinoy Parkinson's Disease (Pinoy PD) in Makati City, Philippines last October 22, 2011.




There are many different styles and disciplines and people practice yoga for a variety of reasons. One
of the main goals of yoga is to improve overall well-being through teaching discipline and self-regulation. Recently, research has focused on the healing properties of yoga and how it relates to positive psychology. Researchers wonder what psychological advantages it can afford, in addition to the previously discovered physical benefits. Yoga has proven to offer different and multiple benefits for individuals ranging from consciousness of one's body and its capabilities, satisfaction from challenging oneself physically, and increased energy and mental clarity and concentration. While the topic is still somewhat new and some research is still preliminary, results have shown significant improvements in both physical and mental health among a variety of subjects in various circumstances.

The practice of yoga traditionally includes both meditation and exercise, but in the West the focus is mainly on exercise. The more classical approaches, such as Iyengar Yoga, move at a more deliberate pace, emphasize proper alignment and execution, hold asanas for a longer time. They aim to gradually improve flexibility, balance, and strength. Other approaches, such as Ashtanga or Power Yoga, shift between asanas quickly and energetically. And more recently, contemporary approaches to yoga have eveloped [(such as Scaravelli inspired, as taught by the likes of Diane Long, Sophie Hoare and Marc Woolford )], inviting students to become their own authority in yoga practice by offering principle based approaches to yoga that can be applied to any form.

Nearly all types of yoga practices include asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), and savasanas (relaxation techniques).


                                                                    Emily Slonina

In a book by Emily Slonina, "Anywhere, Anytime and Any Body Yoga", she discussed the simple yoga principles that one can use and incoporate in everyday ordinary activity like sitting in a chair, working at the office, lying on the bed, traveling, standing and even doing household chores. For someone too busy or with limited agility or flexibilty, the book has been designed as a practical guide that one can utilize without taking too much time, planning and effort. Breathing exercises, anytime neck and shoulder de-stressers, warm-ups, chair yoga poses like sun and moon salutation and relaxation-meditation are presented complete with instructions and illustrations. Even the models Ms. Slonina used in her book are not the typical folks but are differently-abled.


Saturday, October 29, 2011

THE FIRST PINOY PD CONVENTION, A SUCCESS!



The first annual convention of the Pinoy Parkinson's Disease (Pinoy PD) on Healing of Parkinson's Disease thru G-MEN (God, Medicine, Exercise and Nutrition) has been successfully launched last October 22, 2011 at the Multi-purpose Hall, Paseo Parkview Suites, Makati City. It was also the Feast Day of Blessed John Paul II.





Father Joey Paras, SDB, officiated the Thanksgiving Mass with Miss Rowena Bicaldo as Lector while the trio of Eufe and Mary Rose Tantia and Marie Ness Cabahug led the choir.  In his homily, Fr. Paras emphasized the virtues of Blessed John Paul II and the latter's love for the Blessed Virgin Mary. He said that the family and the caregivers of those with Parkinson's disease were in a privileged position because they can see the face of Jesus everyday in the face of those suffering from PD.





His Excellency, Most Reverend Patricio A. Buzon, SDB, and Chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Health Care conveyed his inspirational message from the Diocese of Kabankalan, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental. He stated that the healing of Parkinson's disease resides in God and in Man. "God is the source of life. Life is a gift from above. Man is also another source of healing. Life is also a responsibility. We have our own part to play for healing to happen. The human counterpart of healing is thru MEN - Medicine, Exercise and Nutrition. Do your part and God will do His."



Saturday, October 22, 2011

NOVENA PRAYER FOR THE HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE (DAY 9)

Day 9 (October 22, Saturday) SELF-CONTROL 


Only You alone can save me, Lord, so we sing this praise and worship song:






God, the Holy Spirit, may we be models of good deeds in every respect by being temperate, dignified, self-controlled and sound in faith, love and endurance. May we control our temper and hold our tongue when we are at the end of our tethers, especially when we grow impatient and feel pain.  May we be like Blessed John Paul II who was a model of self control, dignity and unceasing faith.



PRAYER FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE

 THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED JOHN PAUL II



When my legs are frozen in place,

May God the Father push me and remind me

To lift my toes up and swing my arms

That I may walk again and not be afraid.



When I feel like falling or as my posture stoops,

May Jesus Christ, God the Son, break my fall

And catch me as I move forward

With my legs braced and feet wide apart.



When my movement is slow and I hesitate,

May God the Holy Spirit enlighten my path,

Broaden my horizon and show me the way

That I will be more agile and sure in my steps and bearing.



When my hands and feet are shaking, or my chin trembles,

And my voice weakens as I speak,

May Mother Mary embrace me to calm me and assure me

That everything will be okay and I can rest in her arms and wait

Until everything is still and steady and I am in peace

As my voice grows strong and clear.





Forgive me, God the Father, for all my sins

Heal me, God the Son, from my Parkinson’s disease

Bless me, God the Holy Spirit, with wisdom and knowledge

Love me, Mother Mary, so that I can love and serve others despite my PD.



We ask all these, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.

Amen.



Our Father…

Hail Mary…

Glory Be…



Blessed John Paul II, Pray for us.

NOVENA PRAYER FOR THE HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE (DAY 8)

Day 8 (October 21, Friday) HUMILITY


'" Pride and the power of sin have made it difficult for many people to speak their 'mother tongue'. In order to sing God's praoses aw must re-learn the language of humility and trust, the language of moral integrity and of sincere commitment to all that us truly good in the sight of the Lord."
                                                    Pope John Paul II
                                                    Evening Prayer at St. Louis Cathedral, St. Louis, USA
                                                    January 27, 1999


I bow before You, Lord. In all humility, I offer my life to you through this song of praise and worship:






Lord, Jesus Christ, give me a humble heart so that I can respond to Your call to be Your disciple. I will strive to preserve the unity in my household through peace and understanding. Through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II, may You grant me the gift of healing that I implore.






PRAYER FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE
 THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED JOHN PAUL II

When my legs are frozen in place,
May God the Father push me and remind me
To lift my toes up and swing my arms
That I may walk again and not be afraid.

When I feel like falling or as my posture stoops,
May Jesus Christ, God the Son, break my fall
And catch me as I move forward
With my legs braced and feet wide apart.

When my movement is slow and I hesitate,
May God the Holy Spirit enlighten my path,
Broaden my horizon and show me the way
That I will be more agile and sure in my steps and bearing.

When my hands and feet are shaking, or my chin trembles,
And my voice weakens as I speak,
May Mother Mary embrace me to calm me and assure me
That everything will be okay and I can rest in her arms and wait
Until everything is still and steady and I am in peace
As my voice grows strong and clear.


Forgive me, God the Father, for all my sins
Heal me, God the Son, from my Parkinson’s disease
Bless me, God the Holy Spirit, with wisdom and knowledge
Love me, Mother Mary, so that I can love and serve others despite my PD.

We ask all these, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.
Amen.

Our Father…
Hail Mary…
Glory Be…

Blessed John Paul II, Pray for us.

Thursday, October 20, 2011

NOVENA PRAYER FOR THE HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE (DAY 7)


Day 7 (October 20, Thursday) MEEKNESS


As we submit ourselves to You, Lord, we open our hearts through this praise and worship song:






God, the Father, in meekness, we submit our lives for the service of others. Despite our unstable gait and soft spoken words, may we be like Blessed John Paul II in proclaiming our faith and trust in You so we will be blessed and be able to fulfill our anointing. It is through our weakness and illness that You have touched our lives so that we will call on You and be healed. 






PRAYER FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE

 THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED JOHN PAUL II



When my legs are frozen in place,

May God the Father push me and remind me

To lift my toes up and swing my arms

That I may walk again and not be afraid.



When I feel like falling or as my posture stoops,

May Jesus Christ, God the Son, break my fall

And catch me as I move forward

With my legs braced and feet wide apart.



When my movement is slow and I hesitate,

May God the Holy Spirit enlighten my path,

Broaden my horizon and show me the way

That I will be more agile and sure in my steps and bearing.



When my hands and feet are shaking, or my chin trembles,

And my voice weakens as I speak,

May Mother Mary embrace me to calm me and assure me

That everything will be okay and I can rest in her arms and wait

Until everything is still and steady and I am in peace

As my voice grows strong and clear.





Forgive me, God the Father, for all my sins

Heal me, God the Son, from my Parkinson’s disease

Bless me, God the Holy Spirit, with wisdom and knowledge

Love me, Mother Mary, so that I can love and serve others despite my PD.



We ask all these, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.

Amen.



Our Father…

Hail Mary…

Glory Be…



Blessed John Paul II, Pray for us.




Wednesday, October 19, 2011

NOVENA PRAYER FOR THE HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE (DAY 6)


"Love your families. Teach them the dignity of life; teach them the ways of harmony and peace; teach them the value of faith and prayer and goodness!... Help transform the world around you by giving the best of yourselves in the service of others and your country."


                                                                                           Pope John Paul II,
                                                                                           Homily, Amman Stadium
                                                                                           Jordan, March 21, 2000


As we prepare ourselves to receive God's goodness and mercy, let us sing praise to Him for He alone is the source of all goodness. God is Good , all the time! All the time, God is Good!

Day 6 (October 19, Wednesday) GOODNESS







Dear Lord, throughout my lifetime, I have been taught to be good and be a blessing to others. To be good is not just to follow the rules, but more so to follow You and obey your commandments. May I bring harmony and peace and spread Your good news to my family, my friends, my community and my country. Blessed John Paull II has made Your goodness known throughout the world by welcoming  and embracing everyone who wants to know You, regardless of age, sex or creed. Through Your goodness and mercy, we will receive the healing that we seek through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.



PRAYER FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE
 THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED JOHN PAUL II

When my legs are frozen in place,
May God the Father push me and remind me
To lift my toes up and swing my arms
That I may walk again and not be afraid.

When I feel like falling or as my posture stoops,
May Jesus Christ, God the Son, break my fall
And catch me as I move forward
With my legs braced and feet wide apart.

When my movement is slow and I hesitate,
May God the Holy Spirit enlighten my path,
Broaden my horizon and show me the way
That I will be more agile and sure in my steps and bearing.

When my hands and feet are shaking, or my chin trembles,
And my voice weakens as I speak,
May Mother Mary embrace me to calm me and assure me
That everything will be okay and I can rest in her arms and wait
Until everything is still and steady and I am in peace
As my voice grows strong and clear.


Forgive me, God the Father, for all my sins
Heal me, God the Son, from my Parkinson’s disease
Bless me, God the Holy Spirit, with wisdom and knowledge
Love me, Mother Mary, so that I can love and serve others despite my PD.

We ask all these, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.
Amen.

Our Father…
Hail Mary…
Glory Be…

Blessed John Paul II, Pray for us.


NOVENA PRAYER FOR THE HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE (DAY 5)

Day 5 (October 18, Tuesday) KINDNESS

As we open our heart's to receive God's grace, let us put ourselves in His presence through this praise song:






Through God's loving grace and kindness, we have been blessed with the same kindness shown by the people who are taking care of us like our family, friends, relatives,caregivers, physicians, rehabilitation specialists, nutritionists and spiritual advisers. Blessed John Paul II manifested this same act of kindness to the person who almost took his life early on by forgiving him. We believe that we will be healed if we forgive those who have wronged us and extend a helping hand to others who are needy.







PRAYER FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE
 THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED JOHN PAUL II

When my legs are frozen in place,
May God the Father push me and remind me
To lift my toes up and swing my arms
That I may walk again and not be afraid.

When I feel like falling or as my posture stoops,
May Jesus Christ, God the Son, break my fall
And catch me as I move forward
With my legs braced and feet wide apart.

When my movement is slow and I hesitate,
May God the Holy Spirit enlighten my path,
Broaden my horizon and show me the way
That I will be more agile and sure in my steps and bearing.

When my hands and feet are shaking, or my chin trembles,
And my voice weakens as I speak,
May Mother Mary embrace me to calm me and assure me
That everything will be okay and I can rest in her arms and wait
Until everything is still and steady and I am in peace
As my voice grows strong and clear.


Forgive me, God the Father, for all my sins
Heal me, God the Son, from my Parkinson’s disease
Bless me, God the Holy Spirit, with wisdom and knowledge
Love me, Mother Mary, so that I can love and serve others despite my PD.

We ask all these, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.
Amen.

Our Father…
Hail Mary…
Glory Be…

Blessed John Paul II, Pray for us.

NOVENA PRAYER FOR THE HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE (DAY 4)

Day 4 (October 17, Monday) PATIENCE


As we go through trials everyday, let us call on God to show us the way to be patient. Through this praise and worship song, God will make a way for us to bear all our sorrows and burdens and hope for a great and brighter future:







God the Holy Spirit, grant us wisdom and knowledge as we wait patiently for the healing that you promised. May our family be blessed with patience in helping us cope with our illness. During his lifetime, Blessed John Paul has been a living testimony of how much God loves us through his patience in dealing with every religious or political leader around the world. We believe that as long as love reigns in the heart of every person we meet daily, we will be healed, for "Love is patient."




PRAYER FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE
 THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED JOHN PAUL II

When my legs are frozen in place,
May God the Father push me and remind me
To lift my toes up and swing my arms
That I may walk again and not be afraid.

When I feel like falling or as my posture stoops,
May Jesus Christ, God the Son, break my fall
And catch me as I move forward
With my legs braced and feet wide apart.

When my movement is slow and I hesitate,
May God the Holy Spirit enlighten my path,
Broaden my horizon and show me the way
That I will be more agile and sure in my steps and bearing.

When my hands and feet are shaking, or my chin trembles,
And my voice weakens as I speak,
May Mother Mary embrace me to calm me and assure me
That everything will be okay and I can rest in her arms and wait
Until everything is still and steady and I am in peace
As my voice grows strong and clear.


Forgive me, God the Father, for all my sins
Heal me, God the Son, from my Parkinson’s disease
Bless me, God the Holy Spirit, with wisdom and knowledge
Love me, Mother Mary, so that I can love and serve others despite my PD.

We ask all these, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.
Amen.

Our Father…
Hail Mary…
Glory Be…

Blessed John Paul II, Pray for us.

NOVENA PRAYER FOR THE HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE (DAY 3)

Day 3 (October 16, Sunday) JOY


We are on the third day of our Novena for Healing of Parkinson's Disease. Let us sing joyfully to the Lord, Jesus, with this praise song:







Dear Jesus, Son of the living God, we rejoice because we believe that through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II, our healing is near at hand. We are joyful in our ways and our speech for we know that You will always comfort us as a mother comforts his son. We thank you for the joy that You've given us when you were born because You became like one of us. You have endured so much suffering for our sake so that we will be saved from our sins. But our mourning turned to rejoicing after you have risen from the dead.







PRAYER FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE

 THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED JOHN PAUL II



When my legs are frozen in place,

May God the Father push me and remind me

To lift my toes up and swing my arms

That I may walk again and not be afraid.



When I feel like falling or as my posture stoops,

May Jesus Christ, God the Son, break my fall

And catch me as I move forward

With my legs braced and feet wide apart.



When my movement is slow and I hesitate,

May God the Holy Spirit enlighten my path,

Broaden my horizon and show me the way

That I will be more agile and sure in my steps and bearing.



When my hands and feet are shaking, or my chin trembles,

And my voice weakens as I speak,

May Mother Mary embrace me to calm me and assure me

That everything will be okay and I can rest in her arms and wait

Until everything is still and steady and I am in peace

As my voice grows strong and clear.





Forgive me, God the Father, for all my sins

Heal me, God the Son, from my Parkinson’s disease

Bless me, God the Holy Spirit, with wisdom and knowledge

Love me, Mother Mary, so that I can love and serve others despite my PD.



We ask all these, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.

Amen.



Our Father…

Hail Mary…

Glory Be…



Blessed John Paul II, Pray for us.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

NOVENA PRAYER FOR THE HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE (DAY 2)

Day 2 (October 15, Saturday) PEACE

On this second day of the Novena for Healing of Parkinson's disease, we focus on the second gift of the Holy Spirit, which is PEACE.  Let us put ourselves in the presence of God as we join others in singing this praise song:






God, our Father, grant us the peace that we seek when confronted with different obstacles as we make our move everyday. May Your hand guide us so we won't falter in our steps. May peace always reign in our hearts even if there is fear that we would fall flat on our face. We will not be anxious but will have faith that is unwavering like that of Blessed John Paul II. We will do whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely and gracious in the Lord's eyes so that the God of peace will be with us always.




PRAYER FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE
 THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED JOHN PAUL II

When my legs are frozen in place,
May God the Father push me and remind me
To lift my toes up and swing my arms
That I may walk again and not be afraid.

When I feel like falling or as my posture stoops,
May Jesus Christ, God the Son, break my fall
And catch me as I move forward
With my legs braced and feet wide apart.

When my movement is slow and I hesitate,
May God the Holy Spirit enlighten my path,
Broaden my horizon and show me the way
That I will be more agile and sure in my steps and bearing.

When my hands and feet are shaking, or my chin trembles,
And my voice weakens as I speak,
May Mother Mary embrace me to calm me and assure me
That everything will be okay and I can rest in her arms and wait
Until everything is still and steady and I am in peace
As my voice grows strong and clear.


Forgive me, God the Father, for all my sins
Heal me, God the Son, from my Parkinson’s disease
Bless me, God the Holy Spirit, with wisdom and knowledge
Love me, Mother Mary, so that I can love and serve others despite my PD.

We ask all these, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.
Amen.

Our Father…
Hail Mary…
Glory Be…

Blessed John Paul II, Pray for us.


Friday, October 14, 2011

NOVENA PRAYER FOR THE HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE (DAY 1)

Today, October 14, 2011, we are starting a 9-day Novena for the Healing of Parkinson's disease. Let us give praise and thanks to the Lord, who has given us a fruitful life on earth. Despite all the trials that we face each day, He has provided us the means to overcome them as long as we put our trust in Him and believe with all our hearts that what we ask for and what we seek, He will answer in His own time.






Day 1 (October 14, Friday) LOVE 

Dear Lord, You are the greatest Healer. You have sent us Blessed John Paul II to show us how much you love us. With Your mighty power and through his intercession, we seek healing not just of our physical body but our emotional, mental, social and spiritual health as well. In keeping with your greatest commandment, we will love You with all our heart, with all our mind, with all our soul and with all our strength. We will also love our neighbors as we love ourselves.


PRAYER FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE
 THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED JOHN PAUL II

When my legs are frozen in place,
May God the Father push me and remind me
To lift my toes up and swing my arms
That I may walk again and not be afraid.

When I feel like falling or as my posture stoops,
May Jesus Christ, God the Son, break my fall
And catch me as I move forward
With my legs braced and feet wide apart.

When my movement is slow and I hesitate,
May God the Holy Spirit enlighten my path,
Broaden my horizon and show me the way
That I will be more agile and sure in my steps and bearing.

When my hands and feet are shaking, or my chin trembles,
And my voice weakens as I speak,
May Mother Mary embrace me to calm me and assure me
That everything will be okay and I can rest in her arms and wait
Until everything is still and steady and I am in peace
As my voice grows strong and clear.


Forgive me, God the Father, for all my sins
Heal me, God the Son, from my Parkinson’s disease
Bless me, God the Holy Spirit, with wisdom and knowledge
Love me, Mother Mary, so that I can love and serve others despite my PD.

We ask all these, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.
Amen.

Our Father…
Hail Mary…
Glory Be…

Blessed John Paul II, Pray for us.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU MEDICINE (COMT INHIBITORS)

It is a known fact that Parkinson’s disease has no cure. In the early stages of uncomplicated Parkinson’s disease, use of pharmacological agents is still the primary mode of treatment. One of the drugs being used in the treatment of PD is the catechol- O - methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors like entacapone and tolcapone.

MECHANISM OF ACTION:

       COMT INHIBITORS reduce the metabolism of levodopa, extending its plasma half - life and prolonging the action of each levodopa dose. Therapeutic dose of entacapone only acts peripherally and does not alter cerebral COMT activity. It is administered together with each dose of levodopa and is not approved for use in early (uncomplicated) and non- fluctuating PD patients.

 SYMPTOMATIC TREATMENT:

 Symptomatic treatment of parkinsonism using COMT inhibitors as monotherapy is not applicable hence COMT inhibitors should always be given with levodopa. In some studies done on COMT inhibitors, all trials showed a small benefit in the control of the symptoms of parkinsonism, mostly reflected in the activities of daily living but the results  were not consistent.

When the initiation of treatment with levodopa/carbidopa/entacapone was compared to that with levodopa/carbidopa, no difference was found  between the two treatment arms as to the prevention of motor fluctuations and dyskinesia. There are no studies available on the symptomatic treatment of non-motor problems.

 SAFETY

 COMT inhibitors increase levodopa bioavailability, so they can increase the incidence of dopaminergic adverse reactions, including nausea, and cardiovascular and neuropsychiatric complications. Diarrhea and urine discoloration are the most frequently reported non-dopaminergic adverse reactions. The combination with selective MAO-B inhibitors (selegiline) is allowed if the dose of MAO-B inhibitor does not exceed the recommended dose.
           

ENTACAPONE (COMTAN)

 The commercially available preparation of a COMT inhibitor in the Philippines is ENTACAPONE (COMTAN) manufactured by NOVARTIS HEALTHCARE. The indications, dosage, manner of administration, contraindication and special precautions are the following:

INDICATIONS:     Adjunct to levodopa/benserazide or levodopa/carbidopa treatment in patients with Parkinson's disease and end-of-dose motor fluctuations, who cannot be stabilized on those combinations.

DOSAGE:
 One 200-mg tab with each levodopa or dopa decarboxylase inhibitor dose. Maximum: 2 g/day

ADMINISTRATION:
May be taken with or without meals.

CONTRAINDICATIONS:      Pregnancy and lactation
     Pheochromocytoma
     Concommitant use with nonselective MAO inhibitors (MAO-A and MAO-B) or with a selective MAO-A plus a selective MAO-B inhibitor.
     Liver impairment
     History of neuroleptic malignant syndrome &/or nontraumatic rhabdomyolysis

SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS:     Dosage of L-dopa and other antiparkinsonism drugs(e.g. dopamine agonists) may need to be adjusted.
     L-dopa induced orthostatic hypotension may be aggravated.
     Effects of medicinal products metabolized by catechol-O-methyl transferase may be potentiated.
     Caution when discontinuing treatment, when driving or operating machines  due to potential sudden sleep onset episodes.
    

    To get an update in the diagnosis and management of Parkinson's disease, Pinoy Parkinson's Disease or Pinoy PD is holding its First Annual Convention on October 22, 2011 in Makati City.


P.S. FINAL EXTENSION OF FREE REGISTRATION! Register for FREE on or before OCTOBER 15, 2011.


P.P.S. Register for a GUARANTEED SEAT and SLOT in the workshop to a LIMITED NUMBER of participants on or before OCTOBER 15, 2011 including LUNCH, 2 SNACKS and SEMINAR KIT!


P.P.P.S. Submit REGISTRATION DETAILS (Name, Age, Contact number and E-mail address) on or before OCTOBER 15, 2011 to avail of FREE REGISTRATION and send via email to drajoy31@yahoo.com / drajoy31@gmail.com