Dopamine dysregulation syndrome

Dopamine dysregulation syndrome
Two-dimensional skeletal formula of the dopamine molecule. Dopamine receptor agonists mediate the development of DDS.
SpecialtyNeurology, Psychiatry
SymptomsDisinhibition, impulsivity, hypersexuality, repetitive and obsessive behavior, addiction to offending medication
ComplicationsPsychosis, addiction, marital problems, financial problems
CausesDopaminergic drugs (e.g., dopamine agonists, levodopa)
TreatmentReduce intake of dopaminergic drug
MedicationAntipsychotics, valproate

Dopamine dysregulation syndrome (DDS) is a rare dysfunction of the reward system observed in some individuals taking dopaminergic medications for an extended length of time. It is characterized by severely disinhibited patterns of behavior,[1][2] leading to problems such as addiction to the offending medication, gambling addiction, or compulsive sexual behavior,[3] along with a general orientation towards immediate gratification. It typically occurs in people with Parkinson's disease (PD) or restless legs syndrome (RLS) who have taken dopamine agonist medications for an extended period of time.[3]

  1. ^ Grall-Bronnec, Marie (August 31, 2017). "Dopamine Agonists and Impulse Control Disorders: A Complex Association". Drug Safety. 41 (1): 19–75. doi:10.1007/s40264-017-0590-6. PMC 5762774. PMID 28861870.
  2. ^ Klepitskaya, O. (2010). "Dopamine Dysregulation Syndrome". Encyclopedia of Movement Disorders. pp. 323–326. doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-374105-9.00538-4. ISBN 978-0-12-374105-9.
  3. ^ a b Merims D, Giladi N (2008). "Dopamine dysregulation syndrome, addiction and behavioral changes in Parkinson's disease". Parkinsonism Relat. Disord. 14 (4): 273–80. doi:10.1016/j.parkreldis.2007.09.007. PMID 17988927.