Carbidopa/levodopa is a combination of medications that is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. It's also used to treat Parkinson-like symptoms that may begin to develop after swelling of the brain (encephalitis) or damage to the nervous system caused by carbon monoxide or manganese poisoning.

The combination of carbidopa and levodopa is available in its generic form or under the brand name Parcopa. This medication is only available via prescription from a licensed health care provider.

The combination of carbidopa and levodopa is prescribed to treat symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and Parkinsonism such as involuntary movement (tremors), movement difficulty, and balance problems.

Parkinson's disease is a disorder of the central nervous system that affects movement. Symptoms develop slowly over time and vary from person to person. In the early stages of the disease, patients may experience the loss of facial expression, as well as changes in handwriting and speech. Later symptoms frequently include tremors, slowness of movement, limb stiffness, and balance problems.

Damage to the brain and nervous system caused by encephalitis, carbon monoxide poisoning and manganese poisoning can lead to the development of symptoms like those of Parkinson’s disease. This is due to a lack of dopamine in the nervous system. Carbidopa and levodopa help reduce these symptoms by increasing dopamine levels in the body.

Carbidopa and levodopa are two different drugs combined into a single medication. Levodopa works on the nervous system by being converted into dopamine. Dopamine helps control movement. By increasing dopamine levels in the brain, levodopa helps patients with parkinsonism reduce uncontrollable movements (tremors) and muscle spasms caused by this condition.

Carbidopa prevents levodopa from being broken down before it reaches the brain. Not only does this enhance the effects of levodopa, but it means that a lower dose of levodopa is needed for treatment. This can minimize nausea and vomiting side effects caused by large doses of levodopa.

It is important to note that carbidopa and levodopa will not cure Parkinsonism or Parkinson’s disease. They help patients who are dealing with these conditions manage their symptoms.

The combination of carbidopa and levodopa has been shown to cause mild side effects in some people. Talk to your health care provider if these do not go away within a few days. If you begin to experience more serious effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Common side effects reported from carbidopa/levodopa use include:
Uncontrollable movements in the face or legs
Diarrhea
Constipation
Insomnia
Confusion
Dizziness
Nervousness
Dry mouth
Headaches

This is not a complete list of adverse reactions, although they are among the most common.

Serious side effects include:
Fast or irregular heartbeat
Chest pain
Depression
Hallucinations
Suicidal thoughts
Swelling
Difficulty breathing
Hives
Black stools
Blood in stool
Fever
Vomiting

If you begin to notice any of these early signs, seek medical attention right away. These are symptoms of a serious adverse reaction that requires immediate medical care.

As with all prescription medication, inform your doctor of any medical conditions you are currently managing. Tell them about any and all medication, prescription drugs, and supplements you are taking before starting treatment with carbidopa and levodopa. This medication can interact with substances in the body, causing potentially serious adverse reactions.

Talk to your health care provider about alcohol use while taking this combination medication. Carbidopa and levodopa may interact with alcohol, causing serious side effects.

Finally, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with this combination medication. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, inform your health care provider immediately.

This combination medication is commonly supplied as an extended-release capsule or disintegrating tablet. The specific dosage and form of this medication will depend on your condition, age, and body weight. Take this medication exactly as ordered. Do not increase or discontinue the dosage without consulting with your health care provider first.

Keep all medication bottles out of reach of small children, and at room temperature. Avoid exposing the medication to excess heat or moisture.

If you begin to notice any adverse side effects like those listed above, notify your health care provider immediately.

If you miss a dose of carbidopa and levodopa, take it as soon as you can. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

Carbidopa/levodopa is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not carbidopa/levodopa is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Yes! Talk to a provider on Sesame and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your clinician.