Nourianz Approved to Treat 'Off' Episodes in Parkinson Disease

WEDNESDAY, Aug. 28, 2019 -- Nourianz (istradefylline) tablets have been approved as an add-on treatment to levodopa/carbidopa for adults with Parkinson disease experiencing "off" episodes, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced yesterday.

The drug is available in 20-mg or 40-mg doses, but the maximum recommended dosage in patients taking CYP3A4 inhibitors and those with moderate hepatic impairment is 20 mg once daily. The safety information for Nourianz states that use of the drug should be avoided in these patient populations.

Scientists ID Genes Tied to Left-Handedness

THURSDAY, Sept. 5, 2019 -- For the first time, scientists have found four spots on your DNA that might determine whether you wield your pen with your left hand.

Of the four gene regions, three are associated with proteins involved in brain development and structure, according to a genetic analysis of about 400,000 people in the United Kingdom, including more than 38,000 left-handers.

How Heart Health Factors May Affect Your Parkinson's Risk

FRIDAY, Aug. 30, 2019 -- People who have reduced blood flow in their brain due to medical conditions and lifestyle habits may be vulnerable to Parkinson's disease, new research suggests.

Those brain blood flow risk factors -- which also affect heart health -- include prior stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart failure, sleep apnea, diabetes and smoking.