Table of Contents
Levadopa (L-dopa)
Levodopa, also called L-dopa, which is converted to dopamine in the brain, remains the gold standard for treating Parkinson's disease. The standard preparations (Sinemet, Atamet) combine levodopa with carbidopa, which improves the action of levodopa and reduces some of its side effects, particularly nausea. Dosages vary, although the preparation is usually taken in three or four divided doses per day.
Indications of Early Treatment Success or Failures
In general L-dopa has the following effects on Parkinson's disease:
- It is most effective against rigidity and slowness.
- It produces less benefit for tremor, balance, and gait.
In many patients, levodopa significantly improves the quality of life for many years.
Side Effects
The toxic effects of levodopa with or without carbidopa are considerable.
Physical Side Effects. The physical side effects include:
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Review Date: 06/18/2010
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine,
Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital.
Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M.,
Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
