The Role of Carbidopa in Parkinson's Disease

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Generic Name

Carbidopa/levodopa

Trade Name

Sinemet

Indication

Parkinson’s disease

Action

Levodopa is converted to dopamine and works as a neurotransmitter, carbidopa prevents the destruction of levodopa allowing it to cross the blood brain barrier

Therapeutic Class

Antiparkinson agent

Pharmacologic Class

Dopamine Agonist

Nursing Considerations

• May cause orthostatic hypotension • May cause dark urine • Weeks to months to take effect • Do not use with MAOIs • Do not use with glaucoma, melanoma • Assess for parkinsonian symptoms • Instruct patient to take as directed