Dyskinesias developed in 31% of the levodopa patients, but only 10% of the Mirapex patients.

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For over 30 years, levodopa, the chemical precursor of dopamine, has been the primary medication for PD patients.

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Dr Schwid's team tested 200 patients with early Parkinson's who were not taking levodopa or other dopamine drugs.

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Argentina's Dr. Fridman, for example, has tried levodopa on five minimally conscious and vegetative patients (including Gisela Ugalde), and four have made good recoveries.

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It is still the most efficacious drug, but long-term use can result in dyskinesia (jerky, involuntary movements) and levodopa can lose its beneficial effects over time.

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In a last-ditch effort to save her, doctors transferred her to nearby Fleni hospital, where neurologist Esteban Fridman treated her with high doses of the Parkinson's disease drug levodopa, which raises levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine.

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