What Role Does Dopamine Play in Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, coordination, and many other bodily functions. One of the central biological components of Parkinson’s is the neurotransmitter dopamine. So, what role does dopamine play in Parkinson’s disease—and why is it so important?

Understanding Dopamine’s Role in the Brain:
Dopamine is a chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) that plays a crucial role in controlling movement, motivation, mood, and reward. It’s produced in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra, which is located in the midbrain.

In a healthy brain, dopamine helps transmit signals between nerve cells, particularly those involved in the motor control system. This helps the body move smoothly and efficiently. Think of dopamine as oil in a well-functioning machine—it allows the gears (your muscles and movements) to work together without grinding.

How Parkinson’s Disrupts Dopamine:
In people with Parkinson’s disease, the dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra begin to degenerate and die. As these cells are lost, the brain’s dopamine levels drop. By the time motor symptoms like tremor, stiffness, or slowness appear, it’s estimated that 60–80% of dopamine-producing cells have already been lost.

This dopamine deficiency causes the characteristic symptoms of Parkinson’s, including:

• Tremors (especially at rest)
• Muscle rigidity
• Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
• Postural instability
• Shuffling gait

Over time, as dopamine levels continue to decline, non-motor symptoms—such as depression, sleep disturbances, and cognitive changes—may also develop.

​Treatments That Target DopamineThere is currently no cure for Parkinson’s, but many treatments aim to restore or mimic dopamine function.

​These include:

• Levodopa/Carbidopa: The most common and effective treatment, which converts to dopamine in the brain.
• Dopamine agonists: Medications that stimulate dopamine receptors without converting into dopamine.
• MAO-B inhibitors: Drugs that slow the breakdown of dopamine in the brain.

Understanding dopamine’s central role in Parkinson’s has helped guide both current treatments and ongoing research efforts.

PASWFL: Supporting You Every Step of the Way
Managing a chronic condition like Parkinson’s goes beyond medication. The Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) offers a comprehensive approach to wellness and support.

For over 25 years, PASWFL has provided free, evidence-based programs, expert education, and community support to individuals and families touched by Parkinson’s in Southwest Florida. Every week, they offer 25+ programs and support groups that include:

• Wellness and movement classes
• Educational webinars and seminars
• Care partner and peer support groups
• Personalized assistance and advocacy

There are no fees to become a member, and joining provides access to a wide network of support and resources tailored to living well with Parkinson’s.

​Join the Community and Stay Informed 
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For more information, visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org and discover how PASWFL can help you live well with Parkinson’s.