How can I take my Parkinson's medications if I'm in the hospital?

If you are staying in the hospital, ask your doctor to write an order for you to be able to take your own Parkinson’s disease medications. This is important, because sometimes it’s difficult to get medication administered exactly on time while you are in the hospital. Generally, if medication is scheduled to be given at 1:00 P.M., it can be administered between 12:00 noon and 2:00 P.M. and still be considered on time. For people with Parkinson’s disease, 10 to 15 minutes can be the difference between staying “on” and going “off.”

If you’re admitted to a general medical unit, ask to speak with the head nurse about the importance of timing your Parkinson’s disease medications to control your symptoms. Give the doctors and nurses a copy of your normal medication regime. Make sure a note is recorded in your chart so that you can give yourself your medications when you need them.