American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

Which medication is recommended to mitigate Parkinson's-related dyskinesia?

1. Clozapine

2. Amantadine

3. Dopamine agonists

4. Quetiapine

The correct answer is: Amantadine

Amantadine is recognized as an effective medication for mitigating dyskinesia associated with Parkinson's disease. Dyskinesia often develops as a side effect of long-term levodopa therapy and can be debilitating for patients. Amantadine works by enhancing dopamine release and blocking NMDA receptors, leading to improved motor function and a reduction in involuntary movements. Its neuroprotective properties also contribute to its use in managing the complications of Parkinson's disease therapies. Clozapine and quetiapine are primarily antipsychotic medications and are not typically utilized for treating dyskinesia in Parkinson's disease. While they may have some use in managing psychotic symptoms in Parkinson's patients, they do not directly address dyskinesia. Dopamine agonists can sometimes cause or exacerbate dyskinesia as they mimic the action of dopamine, so they are not generally recommended specifically for that purpose. Thus, the selection of amantadine is appropriate for its targeted action in alleviating dyskinesia related to Parkinson's disease.