Objective: TRACK-PD aimed to assess adherence behaviors and drivers of treatment interruption/discontinuation from the patient perspective.

Background: Treatment adherence is critical in Parkinson’s disease (PD), which requires complex and often frequent dosing regimens. Interruptions or discontinuation may compromise symptom control. Real-world patient perspectives on treatment modifications are lacking.

Method: TRACK-PD was an anonymous online survey co-designed with Parkinson’s Europe and available in five European languages. Adults with PD were eligible. The survey was available from January 30^th, 2026, with data extraction on March, 2^nd. Descriptive analyses were performed.

Results: A total of 508 people with PD responded (55% females); 66% were aged>65 years and 56% had been diagnosed for ≤5 years. Sixty percent reported taking PD medication ≥4 times daily. Temporary treatment interruption was reported by 46 participants (9%), most commonly due to safety/side effects (17) or perceived lack of efficacy (15); 21 made this decision independently, without specialist advice. Permanent discontinuation of at least one PD medication was reported by 109 participants (22%), primarily due to safety/side effects (59), and most often following neurologist recommendation (71). Skipping doses was uncommon (5%), while 16% reported occasionally taking additional doses. Overall, most participants (442, 89%) agreed they would not stop medication without medical advice and reported always following healthcare provider instructions. Also, the majority (83%) believed adherence improves well-being. With regards to safety concerns, it was observed that while 328 (66%) reported understanding medication side effects, only 41% felt confident managing adverse events. Medication schedules interfered with daily activities in 46% of respondents, although 83% indicated that high frequency dosing was acceptable if benefit was perceived. Cost was not a major driver with 69% disagreeing they would stop treatment due to price. Most felt supported by caregivers (75%) and listened to by healthcare professionals (78%).

Conclusion: In this European cohort, self-reported adherence was high. Safety concerns, treatment complexity, and patient-initiated modifications highlight the need for proactive, person-centered clinical support.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/track-pd-understanding-treatment-routines-and-adherence-in-care-knowledge-and-perspective-of-people-living-with-parkinsons-disease/