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Parkinson’s disease (PD) belongs to a group of conditions called motor system disorders. PD usually presents in people over the age of 50 with early symptoms that are subtle and occur gradually, varying in intensity from patient to patient as the disease progresses.
Dr. Alexandre Mason Sharma, a board certified, fellowship trained movement disorders specialist at Capital Health’s Capital Institute for Neurosciences, offers the latest treatment options for PD, including subcutaneous levodopa pumps for patients in advanced stages of the disease.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that sends messages between the brain and the body that control movement, memory, cognition, and other functions. In patients with PD, the brain cells that make dopamine are slowly dying. Lower dopamine levels cause slower movement, balance issues, tremors, and other symptoms. Levodopa, commonly the first-line medication used to treat Parkinson’s disease, helps patients maintain healthier dopamine levels and manage symptoms.
“Levodopa pills are often prescribed to patients in the earlier stages of Parkinson’s disease,” said Dr. Mason Sharma. “However, as the disease progresses, maintaining stable dopamine levels with pills can be a challenge. Wearable levodopa pumps (about the size of a smartphone) replace pills entirely, continuously injecting medication under the skin to maintain more consistent dopamine levels throughout the day. No surgery is required, and dosages are tailored to each patient’s needs so they can experience a better quality of life.”
Dr. Mason Sharma received his medical degree at Boston University in Boston, Massachusetts. After his neurology residency at Cooper University Hospital in Camden, New Jersey, Dr. Mason Sharma completed fellowship training in movement disorders at Medstar Health/Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. He has published and presented research in peer-reviewed medical journals and at regional and national conferences.
The Movement Disorders Program at Capital Institute for Neurosciences offers advanced therapies that are personalized for each patient according to their specific diagnosis. In addition to drug therapy like levodopa, individualized treatment options may also include deep brain stimulation and physical, speech, and occupational therapies for complete management of movement disorders.
Dr. Mason Sharma sees patients at office locations in Lawrenceville, New Jersey and Newtown, Pennsylvania. To schedule an appointment, call 609.537.7300 or visit capitalneuro.org for more information.
