Adverse effects and complications of continuous intestinal infusion of levodopa-carbidopa in a cohort of patients with Parkinson's disease in a tertiary hospital

Introduction. Continuous intestinal infusion of levodopa/carbidopa is a second-line treatment indicated in advanced stages of Parkinson's disease (PD). For its implantation, a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy must be performed. Objectives. The main objective has been to describe the frequency and characteristics of the side effects associated with this treatment. As a secondary objective, we have analyzed the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the PD patients who have received this treatment in our hospital. Patients and methods. Descriptive, single-center, retrospective study for a consecutive sample of PD patients treated with Continuous intestinal infusion of Levodopa/Carbidopa from the beginning of 2006 to the end of August 2021. Results. 81 treatment planifications have been analyzed. Treatment success (duration greater than 12 months) was achieved in 78.1% = 50) of the patients in whom this follow-up period was available. The median duration of treatment was 35 months. 58.6% of the patients presented some type of complication. A total of 43 minor complications and 16 serious adverse events were reported. Conclusion. The constitution of an experienced multidisciplinary team is essential to guarantee the adequate management and follow-up of these patients.