[P1–065]: THE BENEFITS OF RESVERATROL WITH POLYPHENOLS IN PARKINSON'S DISEASE WITH ALZHEIMER'S CHANGES

Resveratrol, (3,5,4'-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene) is a non-flavonoid polyphenol produced by plants in response to injury. Primarily found in red grapes/wine, peanuts and dark chocolate, it activates Sirtuin 1, the “longevity gene” and improves symptoms in Alzheimer's, Multiple Sclerosis and Cancer, crossing the Blood-Brain Barrier. The common genetic linkage between Alzheimer's and Parkinson's suggested that resveratrol could reduce Parkinson symptoms. Red Wine Polyphenols consist of 90% flavonoids, known to have anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and anticoagulant properties. The female patient of 75 years with stage 4 idiopathic Parkinson's, 19 years post-diagnosis had plateaued on carbidopa/levodopa 25/100, (C/L 25/100), carbidopa/levodopa 25/100 CR (C/L 25/100 CR) and was given an extract of trans- resveratrol with added red wine polyphenols (R/P) for general benefit. Prior to R/P, the patient was unable to finish sentences, lacked dyskinesias, had regular hallucinations, an increasing need for C/L, progressively stooped posture and poor gait. After R/P, unexpected dyskinesias and improvements in speech, writing, gait, posture and leg strength appeared. Primary outcome measures were discernable as were improvements in cognition and functioning. Pronounced responses necessitated frequent measurement of “on/off” state to regulate dyskinesias, tolerance of R/P and C/L dosages. A regular dosing schedule of R/P was developed with Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) scores and anticoagulation monitored. The patient exhibited a rapid improvement following the initial dose of R/P in cognition and movement. Progressive improvements in all areas were accompanied by increased dyskinesias and a reduced need for carbidopa/levodopa. Improvements continued for about two months followed by a plateau when R/P was increased. Pronounced dyskinesias necessitated a gradual reduction in C/L, which required a gradual reduction of the C/L due to somnolence, improving facial expression and mood. Hallucinations were reduced and usually eliminated. Relatively small R/P doses indicate benefits outweigh apparent low bioavailability, aided by the presence of polyphenols, which improve bioavailability. R/P measurably improves overall functioning and is of therapeutic benefit Parkinson's with Alzheimer's and the reduced need for carbidopa/levodopa suggests that R/P merits testing in a larger trial.