What Does Dopamine Do in Parkinson's?

Parkinson’s disease is often described as a neurological disorder that affects movement, but the root of the condition lies deeper—within the complex world of brain chemistry. A key player in this process is dopamine, a chemical messenger that helps control muscle movement, mood, and motivation.
So, the question many people ask is: What does dopamine do in Parkinson’s? The answer is both fascinating and essential to understanding how the disease affects the body and mind.

What Does Dopamine Do in Parkinson’s?
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter produced in a specific area of the brain called the substantia nigra. It plays a critical role in transmitting signals between brain cells that are responsible for coordinating smooth and controlled muscle movements. In a healthy brain, dopamine helps initiate and regulate physical activity, allowing you to move with precision and balance.

In people with Parkinson’s disease, the dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra gradually die off. As these cells deteriorate, dopamine levels in the brain drop significantly—sometimes by as much as 80% before motor symptoms even appear. This dopamine deficiency is what causes the hallmark symptoms of Parkinson’s, such as:

• Tremors
• Muscle stiffness
• Slowness of movement (bradykinesia)
• Balance and coordination problems

Because dopamine also affects mood and cognitive function, its depletion can also lead to depression, anxiety, and memory issues in individuals with Parkinson’s.

Treating Dopamine Deficiency in Parkinson’s
Since the root issue in Parkinson’s is the lack of dopamine, many treatments are designed to either replace dopamine or mimic its effects in the brain. The most well-known treatment is Levodopa (L-DOPA), a medication that converts into dopamine once it reaches the brain. Other medications include dopamine agonists, which stimulate dopamine receptors, and MAO-B inhibitors, which help prevent the breakdown of dopamine.

Although these treatments can significantly improve symptoms, they do not stop or reverse the progression of the disease. That’s why ongoing support and comprehensive care remain essential for people living with Parkinson’s.

Community Support Makes a Difference
Understanding the role of dopamine in Parkinson’s is just one piece of the puzzle. Equally important is having access to educational resources, therapy programs, and emotional support. The Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) has been providing that support for over twenty-five years.

Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners. From movement and speech therapy to mental health support and social connection, these services are designed to enhance quality of life and empower families impacted by the disease.
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There is no cost to become a member, and all services are available to residents of Southwest Florida.

• Click here to sign up for the PASWFL newsletter
• Click here to become a member for free

To learn more, visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org.