d-dopa
Generic Name
Levodopa (Note: 'd-dopa' is assumed to refer to Levodopa due to its common therapeutic use in 100 mg tablet formulations, whereas D-DOPA is not typically used therapeutically)
Manufacturer
Various generic manufacturers (e.g., Square Pharmaceuticals, Beximco Pharma, Cipla)
Country
Bangladesh, India, USA, etc.
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| d dopa 100 mg tablet | ৳ 7.00 | ৳ 70.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Levodopa is a precursor to dopamine, used to treat Parkinson's disease by replenishing dopamine levels in the brain. It helps to alleviate symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose typically 250 mg daily, given in 2-4 divided doses, increasing gradually up to a maximum of 8 grams daily depending on patient response and tolerability. (Note: Levodopa is almost always co-administered with a decarboxylase inhibitor in fixed-dose combinations)
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but titration should be done more cautiously.
Renal_impairment
No specific dosage adjustment for mild to moderate renal impairment; use with caution in severe impairment.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably with food or immediately after a meal to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Avoid taking with high-protein meals as it may reduce absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Levodopa crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted to dopamine by DOPA decarboxylase in the brain. This dopamine then acts on dopamine receptors, compensating for the depletion of endogenous dopamine in Parkinson's disease.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Approximately 30-60 minutes.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in urine as metabolites; less than 1% as unchanged drug.
Half life
Approximately 1-3 hours (may be extended when co-administered with a decarboxylase inhibitor).
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the small intestine, but highly variable; absorption can be reduced by food, especially high-protein meals.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the gastrointestinal tract and liver by DOPA decarboxylase to dopamine and by catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Known hypersensitivity to levodopa
- •Narrow-angle glaucoma
- •History of melanoma or suspicious undiagnosed skin lesions
- •Concomitant use with non-selective monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within 14 days
Drug Interactions
Iron salts
Can reduce levodopa absorption.
Metoclopramide
Can increase levodopa absorption but also exacerbate dyskinesias.
Non-selective MAOIs
Can cause hypertensive crisis; contraindicated.
Antipsychotics (Dopamine receptor blockers)
May reduce the effects of levodopa.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms may include dyskinesia, agitation, confusion, insomnia, and cardiac arrhythmias. Management is primarily supportive; gastric lavage may be considered. Continuous ECG monitoring and supportive care are recommended.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known if levodopa is excreted in human milk; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2-3 years from manufacturing date, varies by manufacturer.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals globally
Approval Status
Approved (for Levodopa)
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesAlternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
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