Survey finds neurologists seek to minimize side effects of treatment in Parkinson’s

Fewer than half of those dealing with Parkinson’s disease in the United States are able to gain clinical control of symptoms without experiencing side effects, according to results of a new study.

Spherix Global engaged its initial Insights’ Market Dynamix to canvas more than 100 neurologists, employing a combination of quantitative survey and qualitative interview methodologies to gain the latest insights into patient diagnosis and care.

A majority of the neurologists surveyed said their primary motivation for initial therapy is heavily influenced by the desire to minimize side effects as much as considering efficacy of any prescribed treatment, Spherix said in a release.

With few efficacious disease-modifying treatments available, physicians’ primary focus has shifted to symptom management, which is predominantly met by use of carbidopa/levodopa as it has been for many decades, according to the release. However, treatment often leads to troublesome dyskinesia and freezing episodes.

Additionally, neurologists reported unmet needs such as therapies that halt neurodegeneration in the preclinical and prodromal phases, treatments for postural instability and gait disorders for which the current standard of care is physical therapy, as well as therapeutics that address cognitive impairment and dementia.

Survey respondents also expressed heightened interest in gene therapy and LRRK2 inhibition, while acknowledging their lack of awareness of the current PD research and development landscape. In qualitative discussions, the neurologists additionally mentioned the potential of stem cells for replacing dopaminergic neurons, particularly Biogen/Denali Therapeutics’ BIIB122/DNL15, which functions as an LRRK2 activity blocker.