DON'T BE SURPRISED BY SIDE EFFECTS

Dr. Jay Van Gerpen, a neurologist and movement disorder specialist from the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, FL, says he was not surprised by this study's findings.

"Medicines for Parkinson's disease may elicit unwanted side effects relating to mood and personality" says Van Gerpen. "Dopamine agonists can be associated with changes in personality, such as sexual inappropriateness, and changes in sleep cycles. Patients need to be aware of these possibilities," he adds.

Stacy says that although this side effect is rare, it's important for doctors and patients to know that higher doses of these medications may increase the risk of problem gambling.

If you think you or someone you love may have a gambling problem, find out for sure with a self-test from the National Council on Problem Gambling at www.ncpgambling.org.