Description
💊 What Is This Medication?
Levodopa 100mg + Carbidopa 25mg tablet is a central nervous system medication used to treat Parkinson’s disease and Parkinsonism. These conditions involve a progressive decline in dopamine levels in the brain, resulting in tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement, and balance problems. This combination is widely used and remains the cornerstone of Parkinson’s treatment.
🔬 Ingredients and How They Work
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Levodopa (100mg)
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A dopamine precursor that crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted into dopamine within the brain.
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Restores dopamine levels to improve motor control and reduce symptoms like tremors and stiffness.
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Carbidopa (25mg)
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Inhibits peripheral conversion of Levodopa to dopamine outside the brain, which helps:
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Increase the amount of Levodopa reaching the brain
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Reduce side effects like nausea and vomiting
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This higher ratio of Carbidopa (25mg) improves tolerability, especially in patients sensitive to gastrointestinal side effects.
🧾 How to Use
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Dosage: Typically taken 2–4 times daily depending on response and severity.
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Administration:
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Take with or without food; avoid high-protein meals close to dosing (protein may interfere with absorption).
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Swallow whole with water.
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Use is long-term and may require dose adjustments over time.
💡 Always follow your doctor’s instructions precisely.
⚠️ Common Side Effects
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Nausea
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Dizziness or drowsiness
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Loss of appetite
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Dry mouth
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Insomnia or vivid dreams
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Involuntary movements (dyskinesias)
These often reduce as the body adjusts or with dose changes.
🚨 Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Help)
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Hallucinations or confusion
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Sudden uncontrolled body movements
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Suicidal thoughts or severe mood changes
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Irregular heartbeat or chest pain
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Low blood pressure (fainting upon standing)
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Sleep attacks (sudden sleep during daily activities)
🧠 Long-term use may lead to “on-off” phenomena—where symptoms return between doses—or motor fluctuations.
🩺 Monitoring & Follow-Up
Regular follow-up is essential to maintain effectiveness and safety:
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Neurologic assessments to monitor tremor and mobility
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Blood pressure checks (especially when standing)
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Mental health screening for depression or hallucinations
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Renal and liver function tests, if on long-term therapy
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Watch for motor complications and dyskinesia
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
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Do not use in narrow-angle glaucoma or if you’ve had a hypersensitivity reaction
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Use cautiously in patients with:
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Heart disease
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Mental illness
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Gastrointestinal ulcers
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May interact with MAO inhibitors, antipsychotics, and blood pressure medications
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May cause dark urine, saliva, or sweat (harmless, but may stain clothes)
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Do not stop abruptly – sudden withdrawal can lead to a rare but serious condition called neuroleptic malignant syndrome
📝 Summary
Levodopa 100mg + Carbidopa 25mg tablet is an effective and well-established therapy for Parkinson’s disease, significantly improving mobility, daily function, and quality of life. The increased dose of Carbidopa helps reduce peripheral side effects and makes Levodopa more efficient. While highly beneficial, the medication requires ongoing monitoring for potential motor and psychiatric side effects. Regular follow-ups and consistent use are essential for long-term success.
Note: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
