How should I approach the management of a newly diagnosed Parkinson's Disease patient regarding pharmacological treatment options?

For a newly diagnosed patient with Parkinson's disease, consider discussing the person's individual clinical circumstances, lifestyle, and preferences before starting treatment, including the potential benefits and harms of different drug classes ¹.

Offer levodopa to people in the early stages of Parkinson's disease whose motor symptoms impact on their quality of life ¹.

Alternatively, consider a choice of dopamine agonists or monoamine oxidase‑B (MAO‑B) inhibitors for those whose motor symptoms do not impact their quality of life ¹.

Do not offer ergot-derived dopamine agonists as first-line treatment ¹.

When initiating treatment, provide oral and written information about risks such as impulse control disorders, excessive sleepiness, psychotic symptoms, and the importance of medication adherence ¹.

Ensure ongoing review and specialist involvement, especially if motor symptoms or complications persist or are troublesome, and consider specialist management for motor fluctuations or dyskinesia ¹.