A father of two has spoken out about how his medication for Parkinson’s disease has turned him into a sex addict, leading to separation from his wife and allegations of sexual assault against staff at a care home where he lives.
The 70-year-old, who wishes to remain anonymous, was prescribed the drug Ropinirole after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2003. At the time, doctors warned that it could cause “altered” sexual interest, but only recently did the BBC reveal that such warnings were not included on medication leaflets until 2007.
Since taking the medication, the father has experienced an uncontrollable urge to have sex up to seven times a day and has become addicted to pornography. He claims that he had no previous history of such behavior before starting treatment.
The case is one of many reported by the BBC, which has received over 50 similar stories from men with Parkinson’s disease who have been prescribed Ropinirole. These include reports of child sexual abuse, bestiality, and compulsive gambling.
Experts say that Ropinirole belongs to a class of drugs known as dopamine agonists, which can mimic the effects of natural chemicals in the brain. However, this can lead to impulsive behavior side effects, including extreme changes in libido.
The BBC has also discovered concerns about two studies on another dopamine agonist drug, Rotigotine, which have raised questions about bias and conflicts of interest among researchers.
Health experts are warning that the lack of clear warnings about these medications could be “devastating” for patients. Paulette Hamilton, chair of the Health Select Committee, says that nine out of 10 people do not read the safety advice on medication leaflets, which can have serious consequences.
A list of organizations offering support and information is available at BBC Action Line.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpqnpryxvrro