Sinemet
Generic Name
Docopa
Manufacturer
Acme Pharmaceuticals
Country
Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Docopa (Levodopa) is a medication used to treat Parkinson's disease. It converts to dopamine in the brain, helping to alleviate symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and slow movement.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Individualized, typically starting with 100 mg 3-4 times daily, increasing gradually as tolerated.
Elderly
Lower initial doses may be considered, gradual titration.
Renal_impairment
Dosage adjustment may be necessary in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Taken orally, usually with food to reduce nausea, but food high in protein can reduce absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Docopa (Levodopa) is a precursor to dopamine that crosses the blood-brain barrier. Once in the brain, it is converted to dopamine by dopa decarboxylase, increasing dopamine levels in the substantia nigra, thereby restoring the balance of neurotransmitters.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 30-60 minutes
Excretion
Mainly through urine as metabolites.
Half life
1-3 hours (when given with carbidopa)
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the small intestine, but bioavailability can be variable and affected by food.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the gastrointestinal tract and liver by aromatic amino acid decarboxylase.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Known hypersensitivity to levodopa
- Concurrent use with nonselective MAO inhibitors
Drug Interactions
Iron salts
May reduce levodopa absorption
Antipsychotics
May reduce antiparkinsonian effects
MAO inhibitors
May cause hypertensive crisis
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light.
Overdose
Symptoms include dyskinesia, agitation, confusion, insomnia. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category C in pregnancy. Use only if potential benefit outweighs risk. Excreted in breast milk, use with caution.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Known hypersensitivity to levodopa
- Concurrent use with nonselective MAO inhibitors
Drug Interactions
Iron salts
May reduce levodopa absorption
Antipsychotics
May reduce antiparkinsonian effects
MAO inhibitors
May cause hypertensive crisis
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light.
Overdose
Symptoms include dyskinesia, agitation, confusion, insomnia. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category C in pregnancy. Use only if potential benefit outweighs risk. Excreted in breast milk, use with caution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by FDA/DGDA
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials support its efficacy in Parkinson's disease, often in combination with carbidopa.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests
- Renal function tests
- Blood counts (periodically)
Doctor Notes
- Monitor for dyskinesias and psychiatric side effects, especially at higher doses.
- Educate patients about 'on-off' phenomena and 'wearing-off' effects.
- Consider combination therapy with a DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor (e.g., carbidopa) to reduce peripheral side effects and increase CNS availability.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed.
- Do not stop abruptly.
- Report any unusual movements or mood changes.
Missed Dose Advice
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double dose.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness or drowsiness; advise caution with driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a consistent meal schedule.
- Avoid sudden changes in posture to prevent orthostatic hypotension.
- Regular exercise as advised by doctor.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.