Is It Time?

Don't wait to talk to your doctor about Medtronic DBS Therapy. There is a window of opportunity when DBS Therapy is most effective at controlling your Parkinson's disease symptoms.

When DBS Is a Treatment Option

Medtronic DBS Therapy may be an option for you if:

• You have responded well to the medication levodopa
• You still receive benefit from medication, but it's becoming less effective or causing intolerable side effects
• You are requiring multiple medications, higher dosages, or more frequent doses to manage your symptoms

When It Will Be Too Late

DBS Therapy is no longer an option when:

• Your Parkinson's disease symptoms no longer respond to medication
• You are severely disabled even in the best "on" state
• Medical conditions prevent you from having surgery

When Should I Consider DBS Therapy?

The rule of thumb that most clinicians use is 5 to 10 years after you were diagnosed with the disease. Typically, this is when people with Parkinson’s disease are still receiving benefits from medication, but notice that the medication is becoming less effective or causing intolerable side effects.

This time is called the "window of opportunity" because most people with Parkinson’s disease respond best to DBS Therapy at this point in their disease.

There are, however, exceptions. Some people begin the therapy earlier because they can’t tolerate the medications used to treat Parkinson’s disease. Some people begin later because their disease is progressing very slowly.

Think Earlier

You may have been assuming that Medtronic DBS Therapy is something to consider down the road as a last-ditch effort to preserve your way of life. Think earlier, so you don't miss your window of opportunity. When your medications are becoming less effective at controlling your movements, it's time to talk with your doctor about Medtronic DBS Therapy.

It's never too early to talk with your doctor about DBS, and it's important not to wait too long.

Next: Talk with Your Doctor