Impulsive: 2. Wonder drugs

About this episode

The episode explores the life-changing side effects of dopamine agonist drugs through the story of Steve, who struggles with his Parkinson's diagnosis and secret online activities.

Not long after his diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease, Steve starts chatting to camgirls online. But soon he’s going on the sites every night, even logging on while his wife’s asleep next to him in bed. How long can he keep it a secret? Steve’s one of more than 200 people who contacted BBC Investigations correspondent Noel Titheradge about their experiences of side effects caused by dopamine agonist drugs. When medications turn out to have life-changing side effects, how do we balance the benefits with the risks? Details of organisations offering help and support with some of the issues raised are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline. If you have any concerns about medication you’re taking, speak to your doctor. Presenter: Noel Titheradge Producer: Lucy Burns Editor: Matt Willis A BBC News Long Form Audio production

People in this episode

Host: Noel Titheradge

Topics covered

• Parkinson's disease
• dopamine agonist drugs
• online behavior
• mental health
• secrets
• side effects

Keywords

• Parkinson's disease
• dopamine agonist
• camgirls
• side effects
• mental health
• BBC Investigations

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: BBC, BBC News

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