7 Promising Parkinson’s Treatments to Watch

Seven of the most exciting therapies currently in development according to Biospace magazine: 1. ND0612 (Mitsubishi Tanabe/NeuroDerm) This advanced levodopa/carbidopa therapy tackles the limits of traditional oral medications, such as fluctuating motor control. ND0612 is a 24-hour infusion pump delivering a steady dose under the skin. By stabilising medication levels, it aims to reduce “off” periods and improve daily consistency for patients. Expected to launch in the U.S. by 2026, ND0612 could revolutionise motor symptom management. 2. Tavapadon (Cerevel Therapeutics/AbbVie) Tavapadon is an oral, once-daily treatment targeting dopamine D1/D5 receptors. Designed to enhance motor function without common dopamine-related side effects like sedation or hallucinations, it could be used both for early and advanced stages of Parkinson’s. Positive results from Phase III trials suggest it has great potential, with a U.S. launch planned for 2025. 3. P2B001 (Pharma Two B) This innovative combination of low-dose pramipexole and rasagiline reduces motor symptoms while minimising side effects. Unlike higher-dose treatments, P2B001 offers symptom control with fewer complications like sleep disturbances. It’s aimed at newly diagnosed patients and is expected to receive FDA approval soon. 4. BIIB122/DNL151 (Biogen/Denali Therapeutics) Focusing on a key genetic pathway in Parkinson’s, this drug inhibits LRRK2, a protein linked to nerve cell damage. By restoring normal cellular function, BIIB122 has the potential to slow disease progression. Currently in advanced trials, it targets both genetic and non-genetic forms of Parkinson’s. 5. Buntanetap (Annovis Bio) This oral drug tackles multiple neurotoxic proteins that contribute to nerve cell damage in Parkinson’s. By reducing these harmful proteins, Buntanetap not only improves motor function but also addresses underlying disease mechanisms. Its versatility makes it a candidate for other neurodegenerative disorders as well. 6. Solengepras (Cerevance) Unlike dopamine-based therapies, Solengepras targets a specific brain receptor involved in movement control. By reducing “off” times and improving motor symptoms, it offers a unique approach with fewer side effects. Now in Phase III trials, it holds promise as a disease-modifying treatment. 7. Minzasolmin (UCB/Novartis) This experimental drug prevents the misfolding of alpha-synuclein, a protein central to Parkinson’s progression. By slowing disease progression, it represents a first-in-class therapy with transformative potential. Currently in mid-stage trials, it’s a key player in the race to find disease-modifying treatments. What’s Next? While these therapies bring hope, they’re part of a larger wave of innovation, including stem cell and gene therapies. With around 45 Parkinson’s drugs currently in development, the future of treatment looks brighter than ever. For now, patients and their families can look forward to options that promise improved symptom control, fewer side effects, and perhaps even ways to slow the disease’s progression.