L-dopa
L-dopa (Levodopa) is an inexpensive drug that has been widely used to treat Parkinson’s disease.1 It is commonly used to help relieve symptoms such as shaking and slow movements. Levodopa is able to pass from the blood into the brain via the blood-brain barrier – unlike dopamine, which cannot cross this barrier. Once in the brain, scientists believe it changes into dopamine. Dopamine is important because it is a neurotransmitter. In other words, it is a substance that helps to send messages within the brain. Professor Bipin Bhakta at the University of Leeds is leading an extensive study2 to investigate whether this drug can also help stroke survivors to relearn activities, such as walking and caring for themselves.3
Aviva Cohen is the author and CEO of Neuro Hero