Comprehensive Real-World Assessment of Marketed Medications to Guide Parkinson’s Drug Discovery

Abstract

Armodafinil, modafinil, and methylphenidate were associated with a decreased risk of parkinsonism, as were β-agonists. Of the β-blockers, only propranolol was associated with increased risk. Healthcare database analyses that incorporate scientific rigor provide insight and direction for drug discovery efforts. These findings show association not causality; however, they offer considerable support to the association between β-adrenergic receptor modulation and risk of Parkinson's disease.