Question

A 72-year-old woman with a resting tremor in her right hand, bradykinesia and cogwheel rigidity is diagnosed with early Parkinson's disease. Her symptoms interfere with handwriting and dressing. What is the most appropriate initial pharmacologic therapy?

Accepted Answer

Start levodopa-carbidopa.

Answer

Start a beta blocker only.

Answer

Start high-dose corticosteroids.

Answer

Avoid treatment until she develops postural instability.

Answer

Start cholinesterase inhibitors.

Practice question

A 72-year-old woman with a resting tremor in her right hand, bradykinesia and cogwheel rigidity is diagnosed with early Parkinson's disease. Her symptoms interfere with handwriting and dressing. What is the most appropriate initial pharmacologic therapy?