What is carbidopa and levodopa?

Levodopa is converted to a chemical called dopamine (DOE pa meen) in the brain. Symptoms of Parkinson's disease may be caused by low levels dopamine in the brain. Levodopa is turned into dopamine in the body.

Carbidopa helps prevent the breakdown of levodopa before it can reach the brain and take effect.

The combination of carbidopa and levodopa is used to treat Parkinson symptoms such as muscle stiffness, tremors, spasms, and poor muscle control.

Carbidopa and levodopa is also used to treat Parkinson symptoms caused by carbon monoxide poisoning or manganese intoxication.

Carbidopa and levodopa may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking carbidopa and levodopa?

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to carbidopa (Lodosyn) or levodopa (Larodopa), or if you have:

• narrow-angle glaucoma;

• unusual skin lesions that have not been checked by a doctor; or

• a history of malignant melanoma (skin cancer).

Before taking carbidopa and levodopa, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• heart disease, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, a heart rhythm disorder, or a prior heart attack;

• asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other breathing disorder;

• liver disease;
• kidney disease;

• an endocrine (hormonal) disease;

• a stomach or intestinal ulcer;

• wide-angle glaucoma; or

• depression or other mental illness.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take carbidopa and levodopa.

The disintegrating tablet (such as Parcopa) may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using this form of carbidopa and levodopa if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).