To treat freezing episodes, your healthcare provider will want to know how often they happen and their timing related to your medication schedule. For example, they may ask, “How close to your next dose do you typically freeze?”
Once they have a clear picture of your FOG symptoms, they can recommend treatment options.
Medications and Dosing
But sometimes, even when you get the right dose, freezing can continue. Beyond adjusting dopamine-stimulating medication, it’s worth trying other medications, like amantadine (Symmetrel), droxidopa (Northera), or stimulants like atomoxetine (Strattera), says Liao.
Apomorphine (Kynmobi), a fast-acting medication that helps your body use dopamine, can quickly relieve freezing and is available as a small injection or a dissolving film under the tongue, says Dr. Shamim. But it comes with side effects like mouth dryness and irritation, which may limit how much you can use it.
Deep Brain Stimulation
Treatments Under Research
Ongoing studies are testing new ways of preventing freezing in Parkinson’s, like brain training and wearable technology. “Many of these techniques are still in the research phase but will roll out to the general Parkinson’s patient population soon,” says Liao.
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