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What should be monitored in a patient taking dopamine agonists for Parkinson’s disease?

  1. Appetite fluctuations

  2. Constipation frequency

  3. Changes in mental or emotional status

  4. Skin irritation

The correct answer is: Changes in mental or emotional status

Monitoring changes in mental or emotional status in a patient taking dopamine agonists for Parkinson's disease is essential due to the psychological side effects these medications can provoke. Dopamine agonists work by stimulating dopamine receptors in the brain, which can lead to various neuropsychiatric symptoms, including hallucinations, confusion, impulsivity, and even exacerbation of depression or anxiety. Patients may experience shifts in mood that require intervention or adjustment of medication. Notably, these changes can significantly impact the patient's overall well-being and quality of life. Thus, careful observation of mental health is critical to manage and mitigate these risks effectively. While monitoring for appetite fluctuations, constipation frequency, and skin irritation is also important when treating patients with Parkinson's disease, changes in mental or emotional status are particularly relevant to the therapeutic profile of dopamine agonists.