New data shows Nuplazid is safe for people who have Parkinson’s, psychosis

Two recent studies show that Nuplazid (pimavanserin) is safe and well tolerated in older or frail adults with Parkinson’s disease-related psychosis. This drug is the only one approved by the FDA to treat psychosis in people with Parkinson’s. At a recent medical conference, data on Nuplazid was presented. One study showed that most people tolerated the drug well, though one person had a serious side effect that may have been related to it. Another study found that sleepiness and sleep quality were similar between people taking Nuplazid and those taking a placebo. Researchers believe Nuplazid may have low levels of sedation and could even help with better sleep, but they recommend more trials to confirm this. Nuplazid is unique because, unlike other antipsychotics, it doesn't affect dopamine, which is already low in Parkinson’s patients. Instead, it targets serotonin receptors. Previous research showed it doesn’t worsen motor or cognitive functions, with side effects being similar to those in people not taking the drug.