SHOBHA S. RAO, M.D., LAURA A. HOFMANN, M.D., and AMER SHAKIL, M.D.

The cardinal physical signs of Parkinson's disease are distal resting tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, and asymmetric onset. Although levodopa is the most effective treatment, adjuvant therapy may be needed if levodopa-related motor complications develop.

BENJAMIN J. EPSTEIN, PHARM.D., B.C.P.S., JOHN G. GUMS, PHARM.D., and EMERSON MOLINA, PHARM.D.

Three new anticholinergic drugs for the management of overactive bladder have attributes that could reduce adverse effects. Head-to-head studies of the newer agents and older, immediate-release drugs have suggested similar effectiveness across the class, but comparisons with extended-release versions of the older agents are lacking.

PAUL DASSOW, M.D., M.S.P.H., and JOHN M. BENNETT, M.D., M.P.H.

Being aware of trends in contraception use, effective vasectomy techniques, postsurgical follow-up criteria, and risk of long-term complications can help physicians counsel patients about vasectomy and improve outcomes.

Patient information: "Vasectomy: What You Should Know," p. 2076

S. SUTTON HAMILTON, M.D., and FRANCES P. GLASCOE, PH.D.

Physicians can play an important role in the early identification of children with reading difficulties by obtaining patients' developmental, educational, and family histories and by assessing standardized test results. Children who are diagnosed with reading difficulties should receive individualized instruction to improve phonologic awareness skills.