Impulse control disorders (ICDs) and related behaviors (punding, hobbyism, and dopamine dysregulation syndrome) constitute a group of psychiatric disorders that include pathological gambling and compulsive sexual behavior, buying, and eating. These disorders occur at a baseline rate of 1-8% in the general population, but occur at a significantly higher rate in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. They are also a potential side-effect of several classes of medication, particularly those targeting the dopamine system (i.e., dopamine agonists, levodopa and amantadine). Therefore, tools are needed to establish the existence or development of ICDs in at risk individuals, and to monitor changes in the severity of these behaviors.

A questionnaire for ICDs and related behaviors in Parkinson’s disease was developed:

Questionnaire for ICDs in Parkinson’s disease (QUIP)
- Assesses ICDs, other compulsive behaviors, and compulsive medication use.
-The discriminant validity of the QUIP was high for each disorder or behavior.
-Overall the reliability and validity of the QUIP was found to be good.

Subsequently, a rating scale for ICDs and related behaviors in Parkinson’s disease was developed:

QUIP – Rating Scale (QUIP-RS)
- Quantifies the severity of a variety of compulsive disorders and behaviors.
- Supports a diagnosis of impulse control disorders or behaviors.
-Monitors changes in patient’s symptom severity with time, including response to treatment.

The questionnaire and rating scale were both validated in a relatively large cohort of patients at two PD centers.

• The questionnaires are easily and quickly administered (less than 5 minutes, either self- or rater administered).
• They identify, help diagnose and monitor individuals suffering from ICDs.
• They provide a critical screening tool during clinical trials of medications affecting the dopamine system.
• The FDA has expressed concern regarding the need to monitor for development of ICDs and impulsive behaviors during clinical trials.
• Available in ~30 languages.