A patient prescribed rasagiline (Azilect) for
Parkinson's disease asks you how this drug will help his disease. What is your best response?
a. This drug works by increasing the amount of dopamine activity in the brain and reducing tremor and muscle rigidity to improve movement.
b. This drug works by allowing a larger amount of levodopa to reach the brain, which raises dopamine levels in the brain.
c. This drug works by blocking cholinergic nerve impulses that help control the muscles of the arms, legs, and body.
d. This drug works by helping provide a more stable, constant supply of levodopa, which makes its beneficial effects last longer.
Question 2
A patient with advanced Parkinson's disease is
prescribed extended-release50 mg carbidopa/200 mg levodopa capsule twice daily. The patient has difficulty swallowing. What is your best action?
a. Open the capsule and mix the contents with apple sauce.
b. Open the capsule and dissolve the contents in water.
c. Contact the pharmacy to send a liquid form of the drug.
d. Ask the prescriber to order a different form of the drug.