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Parkinson's time-critical medicines — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyCNS TherapeuticsParkinson's time-critical medicinesGPhC CRA

An 80-year-old man with Parkinson's disease is admitted to a care home for respite. His medication administration record lists co-careldopa 25/100 mg at 07:00, 11:00, 15:00 and 19:00. Staff ask if doses can be grouped with the usual drug round. What is the most appropriate action?

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

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Correct answer: E — Explain that co-careldopa should be given at the prescribed times

Parkinson's medicines are time-critical because delayed or missed doses can cause marked deterioration in mobility, swallowing and function. Doses should be administered at the patient's prescribed times rather than fitted around routine rounds. Dopamine-blocking medicines such as haloperidol can worsen Parkinsonism.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS