CARBIDOPA/LEVODOPA SUSTAINED-RELEASE TABLET - ORAL
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (KAR-bi-DOE-pa/LEE-voe-DOE-pa)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Sinemet CR
GENERIC NAME(S): carbidopa/levodopa
Uses
USES: This combination medication is used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease or Parkinson-like symptoms (such as shakiness, stiffness, difficulty moving). Parkinson's disease is thought to be caused by too little of a naturally occurring substance (dopamine) in the brain. Levodopa changes into dopamine in the brain, helping to control movement. Carbidopa prevents the breakdown of levodopa in the bloodstream so more levodopa can enter the brain. Carbidopa can also reduce some of levodopa's side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
How to use CARBIDOPA/LEVODOPA SUSTAINED-RELEASE TABLET - ORAL
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 2 to 3 times a day. Doses are usually taken 4 to 8 hours apart while awake. Do not crush or chew this medication. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split the tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing. Taking this medication with food may help to decrease nausea. It is best to avoid a high-protein diet (it decreases the amount of levodopa that your body takes in) during treatment, unless directed otherwise by your doctor. Separate your dose of this medication by as many hours as possible from any iron supplements or products containing iron (such as multivitamins with minerals) you may take. Iron can reduce the amount of this medication absorbed by the body. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. If you are switching from immediate-release levodopa/carbidopa to this product, your doctor may slightly increase your dose of this medication to get the same response. This medication may take a little longer to work in the morning than the immediate-release medication because it is absorbed more slowly. Let your doctor know if this becomes a problem. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. Your doctor may also prescribe immediate-release carbidopa/levodopa or carbidopa alone to be taken with this medication. Make sure you understand your dosing schedule and follow it closely. Some patients may experience a "wearing-off" (worsening of symptoms) before the next dose is due. An "on-off" effect might also occur, in which sudden short periods of stiffness occur. If these effects occur, contact your doctor for possible dose adjustments that may help to lessen this effect. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is quickly reduced or suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually reduced. (See also Side Effects section.) Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Side Effects
Precautions
Interactions
Overdose
Images
Reviews
Faq for CARBIDOPA/LEVODOPA SUSTAINED-RELEASE TABLET - ORAL
Carbidopa/Levodopa sustained-release tablet is used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease, such as muscle stiffness, tremors, and difficulty in movement.
This medication works by converting levodopa into dopamine in the brain, which helps to improve motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
Common side effects may include nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, sleep problems, or involuntary movements.
It is usually taken by mouth, with or without food, as directed by your doctor. However, always follow the dosage instructions provided with the medication.
It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol while taking this medication as it may increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness or dizziness.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Carbidopa/Levodopa sustained-release tablet may interact with certain medications, including certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking to avoid any potential interactions.
The onset of action varies among individuals. Some people may experience symptom relief within a few days, while it may take several weeks for others to notice improvements. Discuss with your doctor for a better understanding of your specific situation.
It is important to consult your doctor before using this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it may pose potential risks to the fetus or infant.
Disclaimer
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
No Reviews Yet