Health officials to examine if drugs used to treat Parkinson's can lead to addiction issues

A UK health watchdog is investigating warnings that drugs used to treat Parkinson's disease can cause side effects such as gambling and sex addictions.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said it would examine if more steps are needed to ensure patients have enough information when prescribed the drug, used to treat Parkinson's disease.

A group of drugs, known as dopamine agonists, have been linked to a one in six chance of developing an impulse control disorder, according to the US-backed Parkinson's Foundation.

Also used to treat Restless Leg Syndrome, dopamine agonists have been linked to the sex and gambling side effects.

Dr Alison Cave, MHRA chief safety officer, said the regulator was carrying out a "comprehensive assessment" to determine if it needed to take regulatory action to increase awareness of the risk.

"Patient safety is our top priority," she said.

"No medicine is risk-free and impulse control disorders are a known risk for patients prescribed dopamine agonists. Our sympathies are with those affected by any side effects from their use."

Dr Cave added: "Patients must be told about these possible side effects by their healthcare professional and advised to speak to their doctor if they, their family or their carer notices any behavioural changes.

"These medicines have improved many patients' lives, but ultimately, doctors, together with their patients, must weigh up the pros and cons of the medicine when deciding on the most appropriate treatment.

"We encourage patients and healthcare professionals to report any suspected side effects they experience with these medicines to our Yellow Card scheme.

"We're carrying out a comprehensive assessment of all available information to determine whether any regulatory action is required to help raise further awareness of these risks with patients and healthcare professionals in the UK."

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The BBC has reported cases of people changing behaviour after using the drugs and developing life-changing addictions after taking medication, without any prior history of such behaviour.

Parkinson's UK said on its website that impulsive and compulsive behaviours are a side effect for dopamine agonists.

The charity said the behaviours can include things like gambling, sexual thoughts or urges, and obsessive shopping.

It states that while these changes can happen with any Parkinson's drug, "they are more common with dopamine agonists".

(c) Sky News 2026: Health officials to examine if drugs used to treat Parkinson's can lead to addiction issues