Sinemet

Other Names: Parcopa, Sinemet CR, Stalevo.

Commonly Prescribed For: Sinemet contains two drugs namely Levodopa and Carbidopa, generally prescribed for treating the symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease that develop after encephalitis or any injury to nervous system caused due to carbon monoxide poisoning. It is commonly used with other medications.

How to Take it: Levodopa and Carbidopa combination is available as regular tablet, an extended-release tablet, and as an orally disintegrating tablet to be taken via mouth. This medication is normally taken 3 or 4 times every day. The long-acting tablet is normally taken 2 to 4 times every day. Do not chew or crush the extended-release tablets, instead swallow the tablets entirely. Take this medication as prescribed, around the same time daily.

How it Works: Levodopa belongs to a group of drugs known as central nervous system agents. This medication works to be converted into dopamine in the brain. Carbidopa belongs to a group of drugs known as decarboxylase inhibitors. It works to lower the dosage of Levodopa that leads to less nausea and vomiting.

Some Side Effects: Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, increased sweating, vomiting, weakness, loss of appetite, headaches, diarrhea, difficulty falling asleep, dry mouth, nightmares, constipation, and nervousness. Some serious side effects include fast or irregular heartbeat, bloody vomit, depression, red blood in stools, hallucinations, black and tarry tools, and difficulty breathing or swallowing.