A County Durham resident has become one of the first patients in England to benefit from a groundbreaking new treatment for Parkinson's disease outside of neuroscience centres, marking a significant milestone for advanced therapies.
Anthony Quinn receives treatment with the Movement Disorder Team at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust. He is the first patient at the Trust to receive the new drug Produodopa, a pioneering combination of levodopa and foscarbidopa. Unlike traditional tablet medications, Produodopa is administered via a small pump that delivers the medication continuously under the skin for over 24 hours.
This innovative therapy reduces the burden of multiple daily tablets and can dramatically improve motor symptoms, energy levels, and overall quality of life for patients with Parkinson's disease.
Since starting the treatment, Anthony has reported life-changing results. He now enjoys activities previously out of reach, such as three-mile bike rides and late-night gaming sessions—thanks to his improved energy and dexterity the therapy has given him.
"This new treatment has given me a new lease of life," Anthony shared. "I can now do things that weren't possible before, like riding my bike and playing video games. Even simple everyday tasks have become easier. It really has changed my life."
Parkinson's disease is the fastest-growing neurological condition worldwide, making cutting-edge treatments like Produodopa a crucial advancement. The Movement Disorder Team at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust is proud to offer this therapy to eligible patients living with Parkinson's.
Jeremy Cundall, Executive Medical Director at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust said:
"It is fantastic that our Movement Disorder Team have introduced this groundbreaking therapy, which can profoundly improve the quality of life for patients like Anthony. Being at the forefront of this new drug, as the first acute Trust outside of a neuroscience centre, is a testament to the dedication and innovation of the team. As a trust, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge, high-quality care that can improve outcomes and make a positive difference in the lives of our patients and the communities we serve."
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