Levodopa

Uses of Levodopa

Levodopa is commonly used in the treatment of Parkinson's Disease.

How Levodopa Works

Levodopa can cross blood-brain barrier and is decarboxylated to dopamine, thus increasing dopamine levels in the brain which are low in Parkinson's disease. With higher availability of dopamine, dopamine receptors in brain is stimulated.

Side Effects of Levodopa

Nausea and vomiting, Palpitations, Depression, Hallucinations, Involuntary movements, GI bleeding

Warnings

Kidney Use With Care

Levodopa should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease. It may increase the serum creatinine phosphoLevodopase levels and leads to acute renal failure. Dose adjustment of Levodopa may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is not advised to consume alcohol with Levodopa. Taking Levodopa with alcohol may worsen the side effects such as nausea, vomiting, hallucinations and palpitations.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Levodopa may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, however, there are limited human studies. The benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable even with the risk. Please consult your doctor.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Levodopa may cause side effects such as nausea or hallucinations, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Liver Limited Data

Levodopa should be used with caution in patients with liver disease because it may increase your liver enzyme levels. Dose adjustment of Levodopa may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

Lactation Limited Data

Levodopa is excreted in breast milk. Limited human data suggests that Levodopa does not cause significant risk to the baby but may affect the production of breastmilk

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).