Amphetamines 'increase Parkinson's risk'

Those who have used amphetamines such as Benzedrine and Dexedrine in the past could have a higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease, research has revealed.

A study, carried out by a team at Kaiser Permanente Northern California, found that those who had taken the medication were 60 per cent more likely to get Parkinson's disease. However, there was no increased risk in those using the drugs for weight loss purposes.

Benzedrine and Dexedrine are used to increase wakefulness and focus for those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, traumatic brain injury and narcolepsy.

Dr Stephen K Van Den Eeden, study author, said: "If further studies confirm these findings, the potential risk of developing Parkinson's disease from these types of amphetamines would need to be considered by doctors before prescribing these drugs as well as be incorporated into amphetamine abuse programs, including illicit use."

In other Parkinson's news, exposure to pesticides could increase the risk of developing the condition, according to scientists at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the Parkinson's Institute and Clinical Center in Sunnyvale.

Find the nearest Barchester nursing home.