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Formulation : 
Description
Indications
This medication is used in conjunction with a combination levodopa/carbidopa product to address symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease or conditions resembling Parkinson’s (such as shakiness, stiffness, and difficulty moving). Levodopa undergoes conversion into dopamine within the brain, playing a key role in regulating movement. Carbidopa serves the function of inhibiting the breakdown of levodopa in the bloodstream, thereby allowing more levodopa to enter the brain.
Carbidopa can also mitigate some of the side effects associated with levodopa, such as nausea and vomiting.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally, with or without food, as per your doctor’s instructions. Your doctor may instruct you to take this medication with one, some, or all of your levodopa/carbidopa doses. Adhere to your doctor’s guidance diligently. The prescribed dosage is contingent on your medical condition and how you respond to treatment.
Given that this medication is always taken in conjunction with a levodopa-containing product, it’s advisable to avoid a high-protein diet, as it can diminish the absorption of levodopa by your body, unless your doctor advises otherwise. Try to space out your doses of this medication from any iron supplements or iron-containing products (such as multivitamins with minerals) you may be taking by as many hours as possible, as iron can reduce the absorption of levodopa. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Use this medication consistently to derive the maximum benefit. To facilitate consistent use, take it at the same time(s) every day.
Some patients may experience a “wearing-off” phenomenon (worsening of symptoms) before the next dose is due. An “on-off” effect may also occur, characterized by sudden short periods of stiffness. If you encounter these effects, contact your doctor for potential adjustments to your dose that may mitigate these occurrences.
Do not discontinue this medication or the levodopa-containing product without consulting your doctor. Certain conditions may exacerbate when these drugs are rapidly reduced or abruptly stopped. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction of your dose. (Refer to the Side Effects section as well.)
Keep your doctor informed if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest
- dry mouth
- loss of appetite
- mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or stomach pain
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- high fever
- severe muscle pain or stiffness
- confusion
- severe anxiety or agitation
- vision problems, such as double or blurred vision
- lightheadedness, fainting, or fast heartbeat
- repetitive movements you cannot control (either new or worse than usual)
- change in how much or how often you urinate
- depression, or thoughts of hurting yourself
- hallucinations
Caution
- Before starting this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have to it or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product could potentially cause allergic reactions or other complications.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of liver disease, glaucoma, breathing problems, heart disease, kidney disease, stomach/intestinal ulcer, mental/mood disorder, blood disorders, seizures, or sleep disorders.
- This drug may induce dizziness or drowsiness. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you can do so safely.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when absolutely necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is uncertain whether this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Lodosyn is available in the following forms and strengths:
- carbidopa tablet:
- 25 mg
FAQ
Is Lodosyn a dopamine agonist?
No. Lodosyn isn’t a dopamine agonist. Even though the medication leads to more dopamine in the brain, it works differently to do so.
Can Lodosyn cause hallucinations?
Medications that raise your dopamine levels, like Lodosyn can cause hallucinations. Typically it happens when you first start the medication and might go away if the dose of levodopa is lowered.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/carbidopa/what-is#faqs
- https://www.singlecare.com/prescription/lodosyn/what-is#side-effects
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/017830s014s016s017s018s019s030lbl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-17826/lodosyn-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/lodosyn.html
