In a promising breakthrough, researchers at the University of South Australia have developed a long-acting injectable formulation that delivers a steady dose of Parkinson’s medications, levodopa and carbidopa, over the course of a week. This innovation could significantly improve the lives of people with Parkinson’s Disease by replacing the need for multiple daily pills with a single weekly injection.
The new treatment utilizes a biodegradable gel that is injected under the skin or into the muscle, gradually releasing medication to maintain consistent levels in the body. This approach not only simplifies treatment but also reduces side effects and improves symptom control, especially for patients who struggle with swallowing or remembering frequent doses. Lead researcher, Professor Sanjay Garg, emphasized that this could be a game-changer for Parkinson’s care, offering better adherence and more stable symptom management. The formulation has already been filed for an Australian patent, representing a major step forward in patient-centered treatment innovation.