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May 27, 2012

Lodosyn

Parkinson's Disease »

What is Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder and the most common movement disorder. It is characterized by progressive loss of muscle control, which leads to trembling of the limbs and head while at rest, stiffness, slowness, and impaired balance. As symptoms worsen, it may become difficult to walk, talk, and complete simple tasks.

The progression of Parkinson's disease and the degree of impairment vary from individual to individual. Many people with Parkinson's disease live long productive lives, whereas others become disabled much more quickly. Premature death is usually due to complications such as falling-related injuries or pneumonia.

In the United States, about 1 million people are affected by Parkinson's disease and worldwide about 5 million. Most individuals who develop Parkinson's disease are 60 years of age or older. Parkinson's disease occurs in approximately 1% of i...

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Lodosyn Patient Information Including Side Effects

Brand Names: Lodosyn

Generic Name: carbidopa (Pronunciation: kar bi DOE pa)

What is carbidopa (Lodosyn)?

Carbidopa is used with levodopa to treat Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is believed to be related to low levels of a chemical called dopamine (DOE pa meen) in the brain. Levodopa (Dopar, Larodopa) is turned into dopamine in the body. Carbidopa is used with levodopa to prevent the breakdown (metabolism) of levodopa before it can reach the brain and take effect. Carbidopa is only effective if it is taken with levodopa. It has no effect if it is used alone.

Carbidopa is used with levodopa to treat the stiffness, tremors, spasms, and poor muscle control of Parkinson's disease. These medications are also used to treat the same muscular conditions when they are caused by drugs such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine (Prolixin), perphenazine (Trilafon), and others.

Carbidopa may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Lodosyn

round, peach, imprinted with LODOSYN, 511

What are the possible side effects of carbidopa (Lodosyn)?

Carbidopa alone is not associated with side effects. The following side effects are generally associated with carbidopa and levodopa therapy.

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking carbidopa and levodopa and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
uncontrolled movements of a part of the body;
seizures;
persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;
an irregular heartbeat or fluttering in your chest;
unusual changes in mood or behavior; or
depression or suicidal thoughts.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take carbidopa and levodopa and talk to your doctor if you experience

mild nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite;
constipation, dry mouth, or blurred vision;
hand tremor;
muscle twitches;
dizziness or drowsiness;
insomnia, confusion, or nightmares;
agitation or anxiety;
darkening of urine or sweat; or
fatigue.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about carbidopa (Lodosyn)?

Carbidopa is only used in combination with levodopa. It has no effect if it is used on its own.

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Carbidopa may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

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