Rytary (Carbidopa/Levodopa ER) Customer Reviews

Rytary

Rx Prescription Required    RxFormulation : Extended Release Capsule

StrengthQuantity & PriceBuy Now
23.75/95mg
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36.25/145mg
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48.75/195mg
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61.25/245mg
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Description

Indications

The combination of levodopa and carbidopa is prescribed to address the symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease and Parkinson’s-like manifestations that can arise following encephalitis, or damage to the nervous system. Parkinson’s symptoms, which encompass trembling, rigidity, and a reduced pace of movement, stem from a deficit in dopamine, a natural neurotransmitter typically present in the brain.

Levodopa belongs to the category of drugs known as central nervous system agents. Its mechanism of action involves conversion into dopamine within the brain. Carbidopa falls into the category of drugs called decarboxylase inhibitors, and its role is to thwart the breakdown of levodopa before it reaches the brain. This, in turn, enables the administration of a lower levodopa dose, thereby minimizing the likelihood of nausea and vomiting.

Uses and Dosage

Follow your doctor’s instructions when taking this medication, typically three times a day, orally.

Ingest the capsules whole; do not crush or chew them, as this can cause rapid drug release, increasing the risk of side effects. If you have difficulty swallowing the capsule, you can open it and sprinkle the entire content onto a small portion (1 to 2 tablespoons or 15 to 30 grams) of applesauce. Consume the mixture immediately without chewing it. Avoid preparing this mixture in advance for later use.

You may take this medication with or without food. Avoid high-protein diets, as they might hinder the medication’s absorption. Also, avoid consuming it with a high-fat, high-calorie meal, as this could delay its onset by approximately 2 hours. Take your first dose of the day 1 to 2 hours before eating.

Try to space out your doses of this medication from any iron supplements or iron-containing products you may be using by as many hours as possible. Iron can diminish the amount of carbidopa/levodopa absorbed by your body.

Before using other forms of carbidopa or levodopa, consult your doctor.

To maximize the benefits of this medication, take it consistently at the same times daily. The prescribed dosage depends on your medical condition and how you respond to treatment.

Some individuals may encounter a “wearing-off” effect of this medication just before the next dose is due, or an “on-off” effect at other times. If these effects occur and are bothersome, inform your doctor. Do not alter your dose of this medication or any other without first consulting your doctor.

Do not discontinue this medication without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly can worsen certain conditions. Abrupt discontinuation may lead to withdrawal symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression, confusion, fever, muscle stiffness). To reduce the risk of withdrawal, your doctor may gradually reduce your dose, especially if you have used this medication for an extended period or in high doses. Promptly inform your doctor or pharmacist if you experience withdrawal symptoms.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

  • dizziness
  • loss of appetite
  • diarrhea
  • dry mouth
  • mouth and throat pain
  • constipation
  • change in sense of taste
  • forgetfulness or confusion
  • nervousness
  • nightmares
  • difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
  • headache
  • weakness

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

  • unusual or uncontrolled movements of the mouth, tongue, face, head, neck, arms, and legs
  • fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat
  • increased sweating
  • chest pain
  • depression
  • thoughts of death or killing oneself
  • hallucinating (seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist)
  • swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
  • hoarseness
  • difficulty swallowing or breathing
  • hives
  • weakness, numbness, or loss of sensation in the fingers or feet
  • drainage, redness, swelling, pain, or warmth in the area around your PEG-J tube (if you are taking levodopa and carbidopa suspension)
  • black and tarry stools
  • red blood in stools
  • fever
  • abdominal pain
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • bloody vomit
  • vomit that looks like coffee grounds

Caution

Before starting this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, specifically if you are allergic to carbidopa or levodopa, or if you have any other known allergies. This product might contain inactive components that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.

Prior to using this medication, provide your doctor or pharmacist with your medical history, particularly if you have any of the following conditions: blood disorders, respiratory issues, glaucoma, heart or blood vessel problems, kidney disease, liver disease, mental or mood disorders, stomach/intestinal ulcers, a history of seizures, or a sleep disorder.

This medication may induce dizziness or drowsiness. Consumption of alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Do not engage in activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can do so safely.

During pregnancy, use this medication only if absolutely necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.

Levodopa is excreted in small quantities into breast milk and may influence your milk production. It is uncertain whether carbidopa passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Rytary is available in the following forms and strengths:

  • Rytary extended release vapsu:

    • 23.75/95mg
    • 36.25/145mg
    • 48.75/195mg
    • 61.25/245mg

FAQ

How long does it take for Rytary to kick in?

Rytary starts working for Parkinson’s symptoms in about an hour, and blood levels stay high for 4 to 5 hours before they start to decrease.

What foods should you avoid while taking Rytary?

Avoid high-protein diets because they may reduce how much of the medication you can absorb. Also avoid taking this medication with a high-fat, high-calorie meal since this can slow down the time it begins to work by about 2 hours.

Resources

  1. https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/rytary#cost
  2. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601068.html
  3. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-167580/rytary-oral/details
  4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/carbidopa-and-levodopa-oral-route/description/drg-20095211
  5. https://www.drugs.com/rytary.html

Additional information

Generic name:

Carbidopa/Levodopa ER

Formulation:

Extended Release Capsule

Strength(s):

23.75/95mg, 36.25/145mg, 48.75/195mg, 61.25/245mg

Quantities Available:

100

Can Drug Store has provided information from third parties intended to increase awareness and does not contain all the information about Rytary (Carbidopa/Levodopa ER). Talk to your doctor or a qualified medical practitioner for medical attention, advice, or if you have any concerns about Rytary (Carbidopa/Levodopa ER).