HOW IS DUODOPA (DUOPA) TREATMENT PERFORMED?
Duodopa is a treatment where a gel medicine with levodopa and carbidopa is given continuously into the small intestine through a tube and a portable pump. It helps the medicine work more steadily and reduces “off” periods during the day.
- Pre-Treatment Preparation
Before starting the treatment, doctors make a detailed evaluation of the patient. This usually includes a neurological examination, checking how well the current medications work, and performing blood tests. If needed, an endoscopy may be planned. The doctor also assesses whether the patient is suitable for using the pump. In some centers, a short trial is done first with temporary nasoduodenal tube. If patient responds well to this trial, a permanent tube is then placed.
Before having Duodopa treatment, you should tell your doctor about all the medicines you use, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medicines, especially blood thinners like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen may need to be stopped to lower the risk of complications.
If you have other health problems such as diabetes or heart diseas, your doctor may ask you to see your regular doctor for additional checks. You should also let your provider know if you smoke or drink alcohol every day, because both can slow down the healing process.
Before the procedure, the anesthesia team will discuss the available anesthesia options with you. In most cases, sedation (light to moderate anesthesia) is preferred, when the PEG-J tube is placed.
- Technique for the treatment
During the Duodopa treatment, a PEG-J tube is placed into the small instestine so the gel medicine can be given continuously. After the tube is inserted, the portable pump is connected and programmed to deliver the levodopa -carbidopa gel throughout the day. The pump sends the medicine at a steady rate, which helps keep the symptoms under better control. The patient can carry the pump on a belt or shoulder strap and continue daily activities while the treatment is running. Regular follow-up visits are done to adjust the dose and check the tube and pump system.