Indications 

This combination pharmaceutical product comprises two essential constituents: levodopa and benserazide. Collectively, these components are employed in the management of Parkinson’s disease. 

Parkinson’s disease is a neurological condition characterized by an insufficient supply of dopamine in the brain, leading to impaired motor function. Levodopa effectively mitigates the manifestations of Parkinson’s disease by rectifying the underlying chemical imbalance responsible for these symptoms. While levodopa can be administered as a standalone therapy, the addition of benserazide serves to optimize its therapeutic efficacy, enabling the reduction of the requisite levodopa dosage and potentially mitigating adverse effects such as nausea and vomiting, which are commonly associated with levodopa treatment. however, while levodopa offers relief from Parkinson’s disease symptoms, it does not impede the progression of the ailment. 

Uses and Dosage 

Commencement of therapy with levodopa-benserazide should be initiated at conservative dosages, with a gradual titration regimen aimed at minimizing potential adverse reactions while optimizing therapeutic outcomes. 

For individuals who have not previously been exposed to levodopa, the recommended initial dosage consists of one capsule containing levodopa 100 mg and benserazide 25 mg, administered once or twice daily. The treating physician typically follows a dose escalation protocol, augmenting the dosage by one capsule every third or fourth day until an optimal therapeutic effect is achieved without incurring undesirable side effects. 

As the dosage level increases, the healthcare provider may elect to extend the intervals for dosage increments to every 2 to 4 weeks. Furthermore, divide the daily dose, ensuring that the medication is administered at a minimum of four times per day, either in conjunction with meals or immediately following meals. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects

If you encounter any of the following side effects, particularly if they are severe or causing discomfort, promptly contact your healthcare provider for guidance. Your pharmacist may offer valuable insights on managing these side effects. 

• Darkened perspiration or urine 
• Diarrhea 
• Sensations of dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness upon transitioning from a prone or seated position 
• Heightened sexual potency or desire 
• Excessive perspiration 
• Nausea 
• Nightmares 
• Discoloration of saliva, mouth, teeth, or gums 
• Vomiting 

Severe Side Effects

While most of the side effects enumerated above are infrequent, recognize that they may potentially lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly. Therefore, seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the subsequent side effects: 

• Compulsive behaviors (e.g., gambling, excessive spending) 
• Distorted or unusual feelings of well-being 
• Rapid, slow, or irregular heartbeat 
• Fainting 
• Impaired cognitive function 
• Alterations in mood or mental state 
• Agitation 
• Anxiety 
• Confusion 
• Delusions 
• Fearfulness 
• Hallucinations (perceiving or hearing things that do not exist) 
• Nervousness 
• Restlessness 
• Suspicion 
• Indicators of depression (e.g., diminished concentration, fluctuations in weight, changes in sleep patterns, diminished interest in activities, contemplation of self-harm) 

Cautions 

Do not initiate treatment with this medication under the following circumstances: 

• If you have a known allergy to levodopa, benserazide, or any components contained within the medication. 
• If you are younger than 25 years of age. 
• If you are currently pregnant or have the potential to become pregnant. 

• If you are unable to tolerate sympathomimetic amines (such as epinephrine). 
• If you are presently undergoing treatment for severe mental health disorders. 
• If you have active heart disease, blood-related conditions, endocrine disorders, liver ailments, pulmonary conditions, or kidney impairments. 
• If you have been diagnosed with narrow-angle glaucoma. 
• If you have recently (within the past 2 weeks) taken monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, such as moclobemide, phenelzine, or tranylcypromine, in conjunction with levodopa-benserazide.