Longevity & AgingFDA Approves Tavapadon — First D1/D5 Dopamine Agonist for Parkinson's Disease
The FDA has approved tavapadon (Juvmo), a new oral drug for Parkinson's disease developed by AbbVie. Unlike existing dopamine agonists that target D2/D3 receptors, tavapadon selectively activates D1/D5 receptors — a first in its class. Clinical trials showed it significantly reduced motor symptoms when used alone in early Parkinson's, and meaningfully increased functional 'on' time without troublesome involuntary movements when added to levodopa in advanced cases. Efficacy held up to 85 weeks in open-label extension data. Common side effects included nausea, dizziness, and headache. More serious risks include orthostatic hypotension, impulse control problems, and hallucinations. The drug will be available in the US in October 2026, offering physicians a new option to tailor treatment and reduce dependence on levodopa dose escalation.
