Uses of Carbidopa+Levodopa

Carbidopa + Levodopa is used to manage the signs of Parkinsonism. Parkinsonism is a long-term illness caused due to loss of nerve cells in the part of the brain which is responsible for producing dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical messenger that controls body balance and movements.

Therapeutic Category

Carbidopa: Antiparkinsonian agents

Levodopa  : Antiparkinsonian agents

How Carbidopa+Levodopa works

The combination of Carbidopa + Levodopa effectively controls the signs of parkinsonism, where levodopa acts by converting itself into a substance called dopamine and carbidopa acts by preventing the breakdown of levodopa outside the brain, thereby allowing greater proportion of levodopa to enter the brain. Collectively they supplement the brain with sufficient dopamine levels which ultimately results in improving the signs of parkinsonism.

Common side effects of Carbidopa+Levodopa

• abnormal body movements 
• nausea
• vomiting
• dry mouth
• bitter taste
• loss of appetite
• low blood pressure while standing up from sitting or lying position (orthostatic hypotension), fainting
• confusion
• dizziness
• nightmares
• drowsiness
• tiredness
• sleeplessness
• feeling euphoria (an extremely strong feeling of happiness)

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• in case of accidental overdosage
• if you experience signs of allergic reactions (such as skin rash, itching, swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat, which may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• if you experience chest pain, uneven heartbeat or palpitations
• if you experience signs of bleeding in the stomach which may be shown as blood in faeces or darkened faeces
• if you experience signs of low blood counts (such as pale skin, fever, tiredness, sore throat or mild bruising and prolonged bleeding after injury)
• if you experience signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (muscle stiffness with high fever, sweating, increased salivation, inability to sit still, impaired consciousness)
• if you experience fits

Health Tips for Carbidopa+Levodopa

• Carbidopa + Levodopa is not recommended for use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Do not drive or operate any heavy tools or machines, as Carbidopa + Levodopa may cause sudden sleep attacks or can make you feel sleepy suddenly
• Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking Carbidopa + Levodopa, as it could make you feel dizzier or drowsier
• It is important for caregivers to notice and report doctor immediately that if the patient develops any addictive symptoms like craving for large doses of Carbidopa + Levodopa 
• Try to avoid eating a heavy meal that includes a lot of protein while taking Carbidopa + Levodopa, as it may interfere with its absorption
• Take Carbidopa + Levodopa exactly as directed by your doctor. Follow the specified dosage and regimen. Do not change the dosage or discontinue the medicine without first consulting your doctor