Glossary

compulsive behaviour

When a person has an overwhelming drive to act in a certain way, often repetitively, to reduce the worry or tension that they get from their urge.

dopamine agonist withdrawal syndrome (DAWS)

A syndrome that occurs when a person's dopamine agonist treatment is abruptly stopped or reduced.

dopamine dysregulation syndrome

When a person takes more medication than they need to control their Parkinson’s. A form of impulsive and compulsive behaviour.

dyskinesia

Involuntary movements, often a side effect of taking Parkinson’s medication for a long period of time.

impulsive behaviour

When a person can’t resist the temptation to carry out certain activities.

motor symptoms

Symptoms that interrupt the ability to complete learned sequences of movements.

neuroleptic malignant syndrome

A rare syndrome caused by abrupt withdrawal of some Parkinson’s drugs. Can cause death from complications of the respiratory, cardiovascular or renal system.

non-motor symptoms

Symptoms associated with Parkinson’s that aren’t associated with movement difficulties.

wearing off

This is where a Parkinson’s drug becomes less effective before it is time for a person’s next dose. This may cause them to go ‘off’.