Problem gambling continues to remain one of the most mysterious addictions. Scientists and researchers are still unsure as to what causes the disease but they seem to be getting closer. According to Reuters, a new study has found that drugs used to treat Parkinson’s Disease may cause impulse control disorders such as problem gambling.

Thomas J. Moore of the Institute for Safe Medication Practices led the study, which has linked impulse control disorders to dopamine receptor agonist drugs that are used in the treatment of Parkinson’s. Moore and his research team analysed 2.7 drug side effects. They found 1,580 impulse control disorder events, 710 of which were linked to dopamine agonist drugs.

The medication was primarily prescribed for Parkinson’s, but some cases saw the drug prescribed for restless leg syndrome. According to previous research from the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, dopamine agonists are linked to compulsive behaviour in 14% of patients. It is also important to note that the compulsive behaviour is known to stop when the patients discontinue use of the medication.

Problem gambling isn’t the only impulse control disorder that can be caused by these drugs. Hyper-sexuality and compulsive shopping have also been linked to dopamine agonists. It is important for doctors to take note of the potential side effects. While they may improve a patient’s physical symptoms, they may cause emotional and financial turmoil if the patient does develop an impulse control disorder.

“Doctors should understand and weigh these risks against the benefits,” Moore said. “There is a lot of difference between a patient with advanced Parkinson's disease with severely impaired motor control and a patient with a mild case of restless leg syndrome.”

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