Case Report: Sublingual Levodopa in Advanced Multiple System Atrophy
Multiple System Atrophy is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by parkinsonism and autonomic dysfunction. Dysphagia and gastric dysmotility in advanced disease often compromise enteral medication absorption, limiting the effectiveness of standard oral or PEG-administered levodopa. We report a case of advanced MSA in which sublingual administration of co-beneldopa provided rapid and reliable relief from severe motor "off" episodes when enteral therapy failed. This novel approach bypassed gastrointestinal absorption, improved symptom control, and enhanced patient comfort in a palliative setting. Further research is warranted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of sublingual levodopa in similar contexts.
Authors
- Mónica León (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8652-0725)
- Jonathan Hindmarsh (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1871-4525)
- Mark Lee (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8411-9735)
Institutions
- Sunderland Royal Hospital (GB)
- College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University (US)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Journal of Pain & Palliative Care Pharmacotherapy
- Published
- 2026-04-30
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1080/15360288.2026.2653551
- Primary Topic
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Research
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00