Zonisamide for PD
 

What's the problem?
 

It's been approved for PD in Japan since 2009. It improves motor and some non-motor symptoms while extending on time. Its side-effect profile is the same as a placebo. It is available now as a cheap generic. Why isn't this being prescribed?

A review of the use of zonisamide in Parkinson's disease
 

http://www.researchgate.net/publicat...'s_disease

More studies are always warranted. How about calling Japan for their experiences and maybe some prescribing tips?

I have been on Zonisamide for 5 years. It must help me. I tried going off of it and I got real shaky. So I take one at night. I have been a very slow progresser
:) Tami

Excellent response to Zonisamide in this patients
 

Case history of patient with advance PD and levodopa-induced psychotic symptoms helped by Zonisamide

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/store...+inconvenience.

I got a 403 forbidden message.

If you Google "Effectiveness of zonisamide in a patient with Parkinson's ...
onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ncn3.126/pdf"

I am not quite sure why the link won't work, maybe because it is pdf.

Why isn't this being prescribed?
 

I have read nothing but positive things about zonisamide in PD. I am still mystified about why this isn't being prescribed. I can only presume that it is because it is off patent and available as a generic so drug reps are not pushing it or even just informing neuros of its benefit in PD. It doesn't come up as a treatment option on a search for PD therapies so unless you run across it by accident you are not likely to prescribe it or even know about it.

Has anyone had their doctor suggest it or prescribe it? I am seeing my MDS this week and will see if she is willing to give it a try.

newer studies
 

Zonisamide improves wearing-off in Parkinson's disease: A randomized, double-blind study
Zonisamide improves wearing-off in Parkinson's disease: A randomized, double-blind study - Murata - 215 - Movement Disorders - Wiley Online Library

Randomized placebo-controlled trial of zonisamide in patients with Parkinson's disease
Randomized placebo-controlled trial of zonisamide in patients with Parkinson's disease - Murata - 215 - Neurology and Clinical Neuroscience - Wiley Online Library

Wow! Why isn't Fox Foundation and Cure Parkinson's Trust all over this drug?