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Parkinson's medicines timing — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateCNS TherapeuticsParkinson's medicines timingGPhC CRA

A care home sends a query about a resident with Parkinson's disease whose co-careldopa is frequently administered 2 hours late because the medicines round is busy. What is the most appropriate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Explain that doses should be given at the resident's usual scheduled times

Parkinson's medicines are time-critical because delayed or omitted doses can worsen rigidity, mobility and swallowing. The pharmacy should advise administration at the patient's usual scheduled times and support practical systems to achieve this. Dopamine antagonists such as prochlorperazine can worsen Parkinsonism. Modified-release preparations should not be crushed unless suitability has been checked.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS