Impulse control disorders are a psychiatric condition characterized by the 
failure to resist an impulsive act or behavior that may be harmful to self or 
others. In movement disorders, impulse control disorders are associated with 
dopaminergic treatment, notably dopamine agonists (DAs). Impulse control 
disorders have been studied extensively in Parkinson's disease, but are also 
recognized in restless leg syndrome and atypical Parkinsonian syndromes. 
Epidemiological studies suggest younger age, male sex, greater novelty seeking, 
impulsivity, depression and premorbid impulse control disorders as the most 
consistent risk factors. Such patients may warrant special monitoring after 
starting treatment with a DA. Various individual screening tools are available 
for people without Parkinson's disease. The Questionnaire for 
Impulsive-Compulsive Disorders in Parkinson's Disease has been developed 
specifically for Parkinson's disease. The best treatment for impulse control 
disorders is prevention. However, after the development of impulse control 
disorders, the mainstay intervention is to reduce or discontinue the offending 
anti-Parkinsonian medication. In refractory cases, other pharmacological 
interventions are available, including neuroleptics, antiepileptics, amantadine, 
antiandrogens, lithium and opioid antagonists. Unfortunately, their use is only 
supported by case reports, small case series or open-label clinical studies. 
Prospective, controlled studies are warranted. Ongoing investigations include 
naltrexone and nicotine.