Levodon
Generic Name
Levodopa
Manufacturer
Beacon Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| levodon 500 mg tablet | ৳ 15.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Levodopa is an amino acid precursor to dopamine, used primarily in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. It helps to replenish dopamine levels in the brain, alleviating symptoms such as tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initially 125 mg to 1 g daily in 2-4 divided doses, gradually increased by 100 mg to 125 mg every 3-7 days as tolerated, up to a maximum of 8 g daily. (Note: Levodopa is usually co-administered with carbidopa; if not, initial doses are typically much lower and gradual increase is crucial). For 500mg tablet, typical maintenance could be 1 tablet once to thrice daily.
Elderly
Same as adults, but initiate with lower doses and titrate more slowly due to increased sensitivity and potential for adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment for mild to moderate renal impairment; monitor carefully in severe cases. Dosage may need reduction based on clinical response and tolerability.
How to Take
Take orally, preferably on an empty stomach 30 minutes before or 1 hour after meals to maximize absorption, but may be taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset. Swallow whole with water.
Mechanism of Action
Levodopa crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted to dopamine by dopa decarboxylase in the brain. The increased dopamine levels then compensate for the reduced dopamine production in Parkinson's disease.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
30-60 minutes
Excretion
Primarily excreted in urine as metabolites, with only a small fraction as unchanged drug.
Half life
1-3 hours (may be extended to 1.5-2 hours when co-administered with a decarboxylase inhibitor like carbidopa)
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the small intestine; bioavailability is variable and influenced by gastric emptying and food.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the gastrointestinal tract and liver by decarboxylation to dopamine, and by catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) and monoamine oxidase (MAO).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Known hypersensitivity to Levodopa
- Concomitant use with non-selective MAO inhibitors (within 14 days)
- Suspicious undiagnosed skin lesions or a history of melanoma
Drug Interactions
Iron salts
May reduce levodopa absorption.
Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)
Can reverse the effects of levodopa (unless combined with a decarboxylase inhibitor like carbidopa).
Non-selective MAO inhibitors
May cause hypertensive crisis.
Antipsychotics (e.g., phenothiazines, butyrophenones)
May antagonize the effects of levodopa.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include involuntary movements, agitation, confusion, insomnia, and arrhythmias. Treatment is supportive; gastric lavage may be considered. Monitor cardiac function and vital signs.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit outweighs risk. Excreted in breast milk; consult doctor before breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Known hypersensitivity to Levodopa
- Concomitant use with non-selective MAO inhibitors (within 14 days)
- Suspicious undiagnosed skin lesions or a history of melanoma
Drug Interactions
Iron salts
May reduce levodopa absorption.
Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)
Can reverse the effects of levodopa (unless combined with a decarboxylase inhibitor like carbidopa).
Non-selective MAO inhibitors
May cause hypertensive crisis.
Antipsychotics (e.g., phenothiazines, butyrophenones)
May antagonize the effects of levodopa.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include involuntary movements, agitation, confusion, insomnia, and arrhythmias. Treatment is supportive; gastric lavage may be considered. Monitor cardiac function and vital signs.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit outweighs risk. Excreted in breast milk; consult doctor before breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date
Availability
Available in pharmacies worldwide
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, EMA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have established Levodopa's efficacy and safety in Parkinson's disease since its introduction. Ongoing research explores new formulations and combination therapies.
Lab Monitoring
- Routine blood counts (CBC)
- Liver function tests (LFTs)
- Renal function tests
- Blood pressure monitoring
Doctor Notes
- Titrate dose carefully to optimize benefit and minimize adverse effects, especially dyskinesias.
- Consider combination therapy with carbidopa or benserazide to enhance efficacy and reduce peripheral side effects.
- Monitor for psychiatric complications and cardiovascular effects.
- Educate patients on potential motor fluctuations and 'wearing off' effects.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor.
- Report any new or worsening side effects, especially involuntary movements or psychiatric changes.
- Avoid high-protein meals when taking the medicine.
- Be aware of potential dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
May cause drowsiness, dizziness, or sudden onset of sleep. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery. Avoid such activities if experiencing these effects.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet, consulting with a dietitian if needed.
- Regular, moderate exercise can help manage Parkinson's symptoms.
- Ensure adequate sleep and manage stress.
- Avoid sudden changes in posture to minimize orthostatic hypotension.
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