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Levodopa - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Levodopa

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

Pronunciation : (lee voe doe' pa)

Learn the correct pronunciation of the 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 Levodopa

India :

International :


Dopar

Why is Levodopa Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an antiparkinson agent, relieves some symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, including tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement. It also may improve your gait, posture, swallowing, speech, handwriting, vigor, alertness, and sense of well-being and may control excess salivation and seborrhoea (oily, crusty, scaly skin). Levodopa is also used to relieve bone pain caused by cancer and to control pain caused by shingles.

When should Levodopa not be taken? (Contraindications)

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors and Levodopa should not be given concomitantly; known hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Levodopa?

The usual initial dosage is 0.5 g to 1 g daily, divided into two or more doses with food.

How should Levodopa be taken?

It comes as a tablet and capsule to take by mouth, with food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Levodopa?

•Caution should be exercised in patients with history of heart disease, liver or kidney disease, lung disease, endocrine disorders, seizure, mental illness, increased eye pressure, osteomalacia, ulcer, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

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

Monitor heart, liver and kidney function regularly while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Levodopa?

Gastrointestinal- Nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite.
Central Nervous System- Decreased attention, memory loss, nervousness, abnormal dreams, sleeplessness, headaches, weakness, dark-colored sweat, increased sweating, fatigue, dizziness, lighteadedness, and faintness.
Miscellaneous- Muscle spasms, palpitations and rapid heartbeat.

What are the other precautions for Levodopa?

Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for 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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