When it comes to treating Parkinson’s Disease, Carbidopa-levodopa is known as:

  • Most effective/popular treatment
  • Natural chemical 
  • Passes into brain
  • Converted to dopamine
  • Manages body movements 
    • Popular Brands: Rytary, Sinemet, Duopa
    • Available in inhaled and gel form
    • [Parkinson’s Disease]

 

However, there are serious side effects, as this treatment may cause:

  • Dyskinesia → involuntary erratic movements of the arms, legs, and trunk
    • Dopamine agonists can combat this 
  • Dystonia → Slow repetitive movements that can be painful 
  • Clinical Fluctuations of daily activities 
    • Loss of efficacy in these activities due to OFF moments
    •  [Problems with long-term levodopa therapy for parkinson’s disease]