Glossary

Chemical substance (neurotransmitter) released by cholinergic nerves. Acetylcholine is involved in many different brain functions, including control of motor activity. It is also associated with defined syndromes of Parkinson’s disease such as tremor and rigidity.

Involuntary movement of limbs that occurs when limbs are moved voluntarily.

A rating scale to measure how important activities of daily living are impaired by Parkinson’s disease. The categories include speech, salivation, swallowing, handwriting, cutting food and handling utensils, dressing, hygiene, turning in bed and adjusting bedclothes, falling, freezing when walking, walking, left- and right-sided tremor, and sensory complaints.

Additional or auxiliary treatment to primary drug.

Chemical substance (neurotransmitter) released by neurons of the sympathetic nervous system with usually activating functions.

Related to or controlled by the neurotransmitter adrenaline.

Chemical substance or drug that enhances or mimics the activity of a neurotransmitter, such as dopamine.

Complete loss of ability to move, sometimes referred to as freezing.

Chemical substance or drug that reduces the activity of a neurotransmitter, such as dopamine.

Chemical substances that inhibit or antagonize the effect of acetylcholine.

Substance that prevents reactions of sensitive molecules with oxygen or other oxidizing chemicals.

A drug which reduces anxiety.

“Programmed cell death“, usually a normal process in body tissues to give place for new cells. Some scientists claim that in Parkinson’s disease certain nerve cells seem to develop an abnormal high rate of apoptosis.

Loss of balance.

Type of dyskinesia characterized by specific involuntary movements of hands and feet.

Also known as vegetative nervous system, responsible for controlling involuntary body functions.