Scientists have been investigating the relationship between dopaminergic medication and tremor symptoms in patients that suffer from Parkinson’s disease, particularly the effect on the patients’ learning ability.

Scientists found that dopaminergic medication increases a patient’s learning ability courtesy of rewards particularly in patients that do not affected by tremor. Interestingly, patients who experience tremors do not gain any reward learning benefits through the medication. The researchers observed these findings after conducting a study at the Radboud university medical center, and the Donders Institute of Radboud University. The research findings are currently available on the Brain scientific journal.

Dr. Hanneke den Ouden, a Radboud University researcher finds it interesting that there have previously been no studies to better understand Parkinson’s disease patients who experience tremors and tremor-free patients. The researcher also noted in a statement that the study highlights the link between cognition and motor skills in patients.

Previous Parkinson disease studies showed that dopaminergic medication can ease the symptoms or effects of learning disorder. Many patients who suffer from the disease experience shaking or tremors in the arms or legs. Statistics show that one out of every four Parkinson’s disease patients experience tremors. Previous studies show that patients secure relief from the shaking if they are treated with dopaminergic medication.

Analyzing the study and its findings

Scientists observed that treated non-tremor Parkinson’s disease patients treated performed better when they received a reward after completing a task. The task involved pushing a button after which they received a reward. Den Ouden who was one of the researchers involved in the study also noted that tremor patients demonstrated opposite results. He noted that the non-tremor patients experienced faster cognitive deterioration and their probability of developing dementia increased.

The study showed that three out of four patients may experience tremors and they may respond differently to patients. The study results indicate that dopamine systems in Parkinson’s disease patients may manifest differently whether or not they have tremors. The effects of the disease not only include the tremors which highlight the impact on motor functions but also on cognitive functions. Scientists plan to conduct more research into the matter to gain a better understanding.