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Home > Drug Category > Parkinson's Disease, Dopamine Agonists > Sinemet and Equivalent

Sinemet Information

Sinemet (Carbidopa/ Levodopa) is used to treat symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. These symptoms include tremors, muscle spasms, muscle stiffness, and poor muscle control. Low levels of dopamine in the brain cause Parkinson’s disease. Sinemet is also used to treat Parkinson's symptoms caused by carbon monoxide poisoning or manganese intoxication. Dopamine agonists like Levodopa work by mimicking the action of dopamine in the brain. Decarboxylase inhibitors like Carbidopa work by preventing the breakdown of Levodopa in the bloodstream so more Levodopa can enter the brain.

Sinemet Side Effects

The most common side effects of Sinemet may include dizziness; light-headedness; vomiting; appetite loss; sleeping difficulties; Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Black stools;
• Increased eye twitching;
• Mental or mood changes;
• Severe abdominal pain;
• Unusual tiredness

Sinemet Precautions

Do not use Sinemet if you are allergic to Carbidopa, Levodopa, or other ingredients in this medication. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, including if you have narrow-angle glaucoma; have high blood pressure; have kidney disease; have an endocrine disorder; have asthma; have stomach ulcer; think you may be pregnant or plan to become pregnant; are breastfeeding, or are planning to breastfeed. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Sinemet and other medications, like amlodipine; furosemide; metoprolol; lisinopril; tramadol; sertraline;. Avoid taking MAO inhibitors while using this drug and at least two weeks before treatment with Sinemet. Do not use Sinemet if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant without informing your doctor. It is not known if this medication will harm your unborn baby. The drug should only be used in pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. Do not use Sinemet while breastfeeding without talking to your doctor. It is not known if Carbidopa passes into breast milk. Levodopa passes into your breast milk in small amounts and may affect how much milk you make. It is not known if this drug is safe for use in children below 18 years.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Take this drug by mouth with or without food. The tablet is sometimes broken in half to give the correct dose. Always swallow a whole or half tablet without chewing or crushing. It may take several weeks for your symptoms to improve. Do not stop taking Sinemet suddenly without talking to your doctor. You may experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. This drug can cause dizziness. Avoid driving or hazardous activity till you know how the drug affects you. Do not take iron supplements or eat a protein-rich diet while using this drug. Protein makes it harder for your body to digest and absorb Carbidopa and Levodopa. Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Sinemet?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Sinemet.