What is Sinemet (Levodopa / Carbidopa) used for?

Sinemet (Levodopa/Carbidopa) is a combination of two medications prescribed to treat patients suffering from Parkinson's disease. It operates by increasing dopamine levels in the brain to reduce symptoms such as stiff muscles, loss of muscle control, or trouble walking, Your physician may also prescribe the medication to treat other unlisted conditions.

How should I use Sinemet (Levodopa / Carbidopa)?

Sinemet (Levodopa/Carbidopa) is normally administered three to four times each day at a dosage of one tablet, but your particular instructions will depend on your health condition and the severity of your symptoms. These should be swallowed with a large glass of water and may be taken on an empty stomach. A meal is recommended along with administration if you get an upset stomach. Do not split or crush the tablets as this may destroy or alter the effects of their contents. Always ask your pharmacist or physician any questions you have about the medicine to ensure the correct administration.

What are the side effects of Sinemet (Levodopa / Carbidopa)?

The use of Sinemet (Levodopa/Carbidopa) may cause side effects in some patients including:

• Headaches
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Sneezing, stuffy nose, or other cold symptoms
• Mild nausea or heartburn
• Upset stomach, diarrhea, or constipation
• Muscle pain or numbness
• Insomnia
• Mild skin rash or irritation

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention are fever, flu symptoms, irregular heartbeats, chest pain, trouble breathing, tremors, confusion, hallucinations, or seizures. Inform your physician as soon as you experience any intense or worrying symptoms to make sure the correct alterations are made to your application frequency or dosage to prevent more problems from appearing.

Please Note

Do not use Sinemet (Levodopa/Carbidopa) if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a history of skin cancer, closed angle glaucoma, severe psychotic illness, unexplained skin lesions, or if you have taken an MAOI medication within the last two weeks. You are also suggested to inform your physician if you have open angle glaucoma, diabetes, epilepsy, cardiovascular disease, asthma, severe lung disease, a history of peptic ulcers, a history of psychiatric illness, endocrine disorders, kidney disease, liver disease, or an abnormal heart rhythm following a heart attack. These conditions may cause unexpected problems during treatment requiring special adjustments to your regimen.

Strictly follow all instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist while using Sinemet (Levodopa/Carbidopa). Optimum and safe dosage can differ based on the patient and the condition being treated.

As this medication may be unsafe for certain patients, it is essential you always inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or ongoing health conditions, and if you are taking any other form of medication, supplements, or herbal products.

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you have an allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Common signs of a reaction include hives, swelling, skin rashes, chest pains, as well as trouble breathing or swallowing.