MAO-B benefits in Parkinson's studied

Scotland, Aug 24, 2005 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- Scientists say a class of drugs known as MAO-B inhibitors may be effective in improving motor symptoms in people with early Parkinson's disease.

However, contrary to results from other studies, the researchers found monoamine oxidase B inhibitors do not appear to slow the disease's progression.

"The benefits of MAO-B inhibitors are small, but may be worthwhile in some patients," said Carl Counsell of the University of Aberdeen in Scotland and an author of the review. "I don't think our review supports a policy of putting all newly diagnosed patients on an MAO-B inhibitor, but some patients may wish to try it."

Parkinson's disease is a motor system disorder that results from the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells. There is no blood or laboratory test to diagnose Parkinson's and no cure.

The review appears in the current issue of The Cochrane Library, a publication of The Cochrane Collaboration, an international organization that evaluates medical research.