Levodopa-Carbidopa is a combination of two active ingredients used in the medication for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Carbidopa is an anhydrous, isomer of synthetic hydrazine. It is a peripheral dopa decarboxylase inhibitor used as an adjunct with levodopa to prevent levodopa degradation to dopamine in extracerebral tissue to decrease the peripheral side effects of levodopa.

Levodopa is an amino acid precursor of dopamine that has antiparkinsonian properties. This component is decarboxylated to dopamine and stimulates the dopaminergic receptors to compensate for the depleted supply of endogenous dopamine seen in Parkinson’s disease.

Class of Drugs – Dopa decarboxylase inhibitor + Amino acid precursor

Molecular Formula – C₁₀H₁₄N₂O₄ + C₉H₁₁NO₄

Molecular Weight – 226.23 g/mol + 197.19 g/mol

Working: This combination of drugs, Levodopa-carbidopa is indicated in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. This condition is believed to be caused by low levels of dopamine in certain parts of the brain. When levodopa is taken, it crosses into the brain through the “blood-brain barrier.” It results in an increase in brain dopamine concentrations is believed to improve nerve conduction and assist the movement disorders in Parkinson’s disease. Another component Carbidopa does not cross the blood-brain barrier that prevents the breakdown of levodopa before it crosses into the brain.

Uses: Given medication is approved to treat symptoms of Parkinson’s disease or Parkinson-like symptoms like shakiness, stiffness, difficulty moving. This disease is thought to be caused by too little of a naturally occurring substance in the brain. Levodopa changes into dopamine in the brain that helps to control movement. Carbidopa prevents the breakdown of levodopa in the bloodstream so more levodopa can enter the brain. Levodopa-Carbidopa can also reduce some side effects such as nausea and vomiting.

Popular Brands and Dosages: This combination of active ingredients is used as the main active component in a popular brand medicine as given below:

• Sinemet: 100 mg + 25 mg

This medicine shall be taken only after prescribed by the doctor.