Any type of medicine you take can come with risks and benefits, including your Parkinson’s disease treatment. Your meds help control your worsening symptoms in later stages of the disease. Here are a few tips to keep you safe:

1. Take your medicines exactly the way your doctor prescribes.
2. Read the directions on the label carefully.
3. Ask questions if you’re unsure.
4. Talk to your doctor before making any changes.

Make note of every medicine, vitamin, or supplement you’re taking. Carry this list with you each time you see your:

• Neurologist
• Movement disorder specialist
• Any other doctor

You’re unique, and so is your situation. So your doctor may suggest not taking certain medications with Parkinson’s disease. If you need to add another medicine to your list, check with your doctor first. They’ll make sure there aren’t any interactions. 

When taken as directed, your Parkinson’s meds can come with more benefits than risks. Everyone is different, but you may get some side effects like:

• Nausea
• Feeling lightheaded
• Involuntary movements
• Sleepiness
• Compulsive behaviors
• Constipation

If you notice any new side effects or bothersome symptoms, tell your doctor right away.

You’ll likely take your Parkinson’s medicine often, at set times throughout the day. Keep on track and use: 

• Pill boxes
• Medication alarms
• Med reminders
• Lists
• Apps to remind you

Taking your medicine on time, even within the hour, can prevent symptoms from getting worse.

Your pharmacist is another great person to ask about your medicines and any potential side effects. Your pharmacy keeps a record of your medicines — both your prescriptions and over-the-counter ones. 

Make it easier and get all your prescriptions filled at one place. Ask your pharmacist to spot any medicines that might interact and stop trouble before it starts.

Think about adding a medication card in your wallet along with your prescription list. The med card can alert others about your advanced Parkinson’s and key medicines for an emergency.

Your cell phone is another handy place for this information. Or you can wear a MedicAlert bracelet to let others know about your condition and any medicines.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about any medication allergies. They’ll make a record and check for any interactions.

Pay attention and get medical help right away if you have symptoms of a drug allergy, such as: 

• Fever
• Swelling
• Rash, hives
• Watery eyes that itch
• Runny nose
• Shortness of breath, wheezing

Your pharmacist can also check before you start a new medicine to make sure it isn’t a concern. 

Here are a few ways to keep your Parkinson’s medicine safe:

• Securely store your medicine and any others you're taking.
• Check to make sure your medicines aren’t expired — they may not work as safely or as well.
• Keep your medicines in the original bottle or package, so you can clearly read the label.
• Make sure kids and pets can’t reach your medications.

Sometimes the protein from your food can block your body from taking in your Parkinson’s medicine — it’s called the “protein effect.” 

More common in the later stages of Parkinson’s, the effect doesn’t happen to everyone. You may want to wait to eat protein at least 30 minutes after taking your medication. Ask your doctor how to adjust.

Parkinson’s disease can sometimes cause side effects after anesthesia medicine. But you can prepare for surgery and ask for help ahead of time to keep up with your usual medication schedule.

Talk to your doctor, surgeon, or anesthesiologist about sticking to your meds in the hospital. They’ll help you plan to continue your Parkinson’s medicines in advance.

Your friends, family, and community can help you with your late-stage Parkinson’s disease. They can help keep your medicines in order and stick to a routine.

Over time, you may find that you need more help. That’s OK. Ask your doctor for solutions as you have:

• Trouble swallowing
• “Off” times between medication doses
• Challenges when you can’t move

Work closely with your care team. They’ll help you adjust and manage your medicines safely.