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Carbidopa-Levodopa - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Carbidopa-Levodopa

Generic Name : Carbidopa-Levodopa
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Carbidopa-Levodopa are provided here.

Pronunciation : kar bi doe' pa- lee voe doe' pa

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Carbidopa-Levodopa, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y46.7 Therapeutic Classification : Antiparkinson Agents

Trade Names/Brand Names of Carbidopa-Levodopa

India :

International :


Atamet, Parcopa, Sinemet, Stalevo

Why is Carbidopa-Levodopa Prescribed? (Indications)

This combination medication contains antidyskinetic drugs, prescribed for Parkinson’s disease.  The addition of Carbidopa enhances lower dose of Levodopa to be used.

When should Carbidopa-Levodopa not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with skin lesions or cancer, co-administration with MAOIs or within 14 days of MAOIs administration and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Carbidopa-Levodopa?

Initial: Adult- PO- Per tab contains L-dopa 100 mg and carbidopa 25 mg. Initial: 1 tab 3 times per day. It may be increased.

How should Carbidopa-Levodopa be taken?

It comes as a capsule and tablet to take by mouth, on an empty stomach.

What are the warnings and precautions for Carbidopa-Levodopa?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of hormone problems, asthma, mental illness, diabetes, ulcer, heart attack, irregular heartbeat, heart, kidney, liver or lung disease, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breast feeding.

• It may cause drowsiness, dizziness or lightheadedness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

• It may cause mental or mood changes; if it is so consult with your doctor.

• Patient may develop with increased risk of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome with the following symptoms: fever, stiff muscles, confusion, abnormal thinking, fast or irregular heartbeat and sweating. If it is so consult with your doctor.

• Monitor complete blood cell counts and liver function regularly while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Carbidopa-Levodopa?

Most common - Involuntary movements and nausea.
Body as a Whole - Chest pain and weakness.
Heart - Irregular heart beat, low/high blood pressure, fainting, vein inflammation and palpitations.
Gastrointestinal - Dark saliva, stomach bleeding, development of duodenal ulcer, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, dry mouth and taste alterations.
Blood - Anemia, decrease in white blood cells and platelets.
Hypersensitivity - Shock, hives, itching, bruising and lesions.
Musculoskeletal - Back pain, shoulder pain and muscle cramps.
Central Nervous System- Hallucinations, confusion, agitation, dizziness, drowsiness, abnormal dreams, sleeplessness, tingling, headache, depression, suicidal tendencies, dementia and increased sexual drive.
Respiratory - Difficulty in breathing and upper respiratory infection.
Skin - Rash, increased sweating, hair loss and increased sweating.
Genitourinary - Urinary tract infection, urinary frequency and dark colored urine.

What are the other precautions for Carbidopa-Levodopa?

Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Carbidopa-Levodopa?

Store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and excess heat and moisture.

Schedule : H
Prescription drugs - Drugs to be sold only under the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner.

Levodopa & Carbidopa: Drug to Treat Parkinson's Disease and Related Movement Disorders

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