Medication Off Times

I'm told I am lucky to respond to Sinemet and have been taking it since 2012.  The bad part is the medicine is only effective for 3 hours, and then it wears off pretty quickly. I've tried extended release and am currently taking Rytary which is supposedly longer lasting with a mellow wear off but it only lasts 3 hours and wears off quickly too.

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The time while meds aren't working is called the "Off Time." For me this involves stiffness, neck and shoulder pain, lower back pain and a bit of anxiety.  I've described my "off time" as walking in a swimming pool, when I try to move my legs or arms there is a lot of resistance. Oh, it's not relaxing like lounging in a pool.

Tell your movement disorder specialist if you're having off times. Keep a log of when they occur and for how long. 

Your doctor may change doesages or the timing.

There are other options too. Injections, pumps and brain surgery. My doctor thinks I'd be a good candidates for deep brain stimulation (DBS). DBS is a type of surgery in which a device is implanted in the brain to deliver electrical pulses and decrease the motor symptoms of PD.
Everyone responds differently to the various PD treatments. There is no one solution that works for everyone. As PD progresses, your doctor will adjust meds and treatment options.