EPISODE · Feb 10, 2026 · 3 MIN
Impulsive: Trailer
from Shadow World · host BBC Radio 4
Early in 2025, BBC Investigations Correspondent Noel Titheradge published his first story about a category of prescription drug with unusual side effects. People who take dopamine agonist drugs for conditions like Parkinson’s disease or Restless Legs Syndrome often report impulse control disorders - problems with gambling, compulsive eating or shopping, or hypersexuality.He wasn’t expecting the response. After that first article was published more than 200 people got in touch - that’s me, they said, that’s my partner, that’s my dad.So Noel started digging. Details of organisations offering help and support with some of the issues raised are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.If you have any concerns about medication you’re taking, speak to your doctor.
What this episode covers
Early in 2025, BBC Investigations Correspondent Noel Titheradge published his first story about a category of prescription drug with unusual side effects. People who take dopamine agonist drugs for conditions like Parkinson’s disease or Restless Legs Syndrome often report impulse control disorders - problems with gambling, compulsive eating or shopping, or hypersexuality.He wasn’t expecting the response. After that first article was published more than 200 people got in touch - that’s me, they said, that’s my partner, that’s my dad.So Noel started digging. Details of organisations offering help and support with some of the issues raised are available at bbc.co.uk/actionline.If you have any concerns about medication you’re taking, speak to your doctor.
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Impulsive: Trailer
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