Die rektale Applikation von Levodopa in der Sterbephase – ein Fallbericht

Zusammenfassung

Die Medikamentenapplikation in Form von Tabletten oder Kapseln gestaltet sich bei Parkinson-Patienten in der finalen Lebensphase oft problematisch, da sich Probleme wie Dysphagie, reduzierte Mobilität, veränderte Bewusstseinszustände oder eine eingeschränkte orale Aufnahmefähigkeit einstellen. Die hiermit einhergehende unzureichende Symptomkontrolle erhöht zudem das Risiko für gefährliche Komplikationen wie Aspiration, Dehydratation oder eine Verschlechterung der Beweglichkeit. Wir berichten anhand eines Fallberichts über die Möglichkeit der rektalen Applikation von Levodopa bei einem Parkinson-Patienten in der Sterbephase und stellen mithilfe veröffentlichter Fachberichte und Studien die Datenlage zu diesem „off-label-use“ dar.

Abstract

The administration of medication in the form of tablets or capsules is often problematic for patients with Parkinson’s disease in the final phase of life, as problems such as dysphagia, reduced mobility, altered states of consciousness or limited oral intake can occur. The associated inadequate symptom control also increases the risk of dangerous complications such as aspiration, dehydration or a deterioration in mobility. Based on a case report, we report on the possibility of rectal administration of levodopa in a patient with Parkinson’s disease in the dying phase and present the data on this “off-label use” with the help of published case reports and studies.

Schlüsselwörter

Palliativmedizin - Parkinson - Levodopa - orale Medikamentengabe - rektale Medikamentengabe - Dysphagie

Keywords

Parkinson’s disease - rectal administration - Palliative Care - levodopa - dysphagia - oral administration

Publication History

Received: 21 February 2025

Accepted after revision: 11 June 2025

Article published online:
09 July 2025

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