Levodopa/benserazide

Levodopa/benserazide is a medication used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. It is a combination of two active ingredients: levodopa and benserazide. Levodopa is a precursor of dopamine, while benserazide is a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor.

Pharmacology

Levodopa is converted into dopamine in the brain, which helps to alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Benserazide, on the other hand, inhibits the enzyme aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) in the peripheral tissues, preventing the conversion of levodopa into dopamine outside the brain. This allows more levodopa to reach the brain and reduces the peripheral side effects of dopamine.

Clinical use

Levodopa/benserazide is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and Parkinsonism. It is usually given in divided doses, with meals, to reduce the gastrointestinal side effects. The dose is adjusted according to the patient's response and tolerance.

Side effects

The most common side effects of levodopa/benserazide include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dry mouth, hand tremor, abdominal pain, and confusion. Less common side effects include depression, hallucinations, insomnia, and orthostatic hypotension.

Interactions

Levodopa/benserazide can interact with several other medications, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), antipsychotics, and certain antidepressants. It can also interact with high-protein foods, which can reduce the absorption of levodopa.

Contraindications

Levodopa/benserazide is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation, as well as in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, severe cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, renal, hepatic or endocrine disease, and in patients with a history of melanoma or suspicious, undiagnosed skin lesions.

See also

• Parkinson's disease
• Levodopa
• Benserazide
• Dopamine
• Aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase