Continuous duodenal infusions of levodopa.

Infusion of carbidopa/levodopa or levodopa through a duodenal tube can facilitate increased mobility and functional ability in individuals with Parkinson's disease when conventional drug therapy is unsuccessful in achieving desired outcomes. Therapy requires appropriate patient selection, ongoing assessment of the patient's physical and emotional needs and collaboration between the patient, nurses and physicians. Determining the amount of medication required to achieve the desired outcomes takes time. Implantable pumps may be a future strategy. Future research should focus on patient and family coping throughout hospitalization and at home so the emotional needs of this specific population can be met.