Madopar CR

Madopar CR Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Madopar CR is a brand name. Its generic name is Levodopa + Benserazide.

Introduction

Levodopa + benserazide is a combination medication indicated for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. It contains levodopa, the precursor of dopamine, and the DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor, benserazide, which helps to prolong the action of levodopa, thereby increasing its effectiveness.

Uses

Levodopa + benserazide is used to treat patients with Parkinson’s disease. It is indicated for the relief of symptoms, which include tremor, stiffness, slowed and irregular movement, and impaired coordination.

Mechanism of Action

Levodopa is converted to dopamine in the brain and peripheral tissues. Benserazide prevents the breakdown of levodopa in the peripheral tissues, thus enhancing the availability of the drug for conversion to dopamine. This increases the concentration of dopamine in the brain, which helps to reduce symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

Levodopa + benserazide begins to work within 1 to 2 hours after dosing. The effects may last up to 4 hours, depending on the dose.

Absorption

Levodopa + benserazide is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The maximum concentration is reached in 1 to 2 hours after oral administration.

Route of Elimination

Levodopa + benserazide is eliminated mainly through the kidneys. Some of the drug is metabolized and some is excreted unchanged in the urine.

Dosage

The recommended starting dose of levodopa + benserazide is one 50/12.5 mg (levodopa/benserazide) tablet two to three times a day. The dosage can be increased gradually, in increments of 50/12.5 mg at intervals of one week or more, up to a maximum of 400/50 mg per day.

Administration

Levodopa + benserazide should be taken orally with meals. It is important to take the medication as prescribed.

Side Effect

Common side effects of levodopa + benserazide include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, insomnia, headache, dizziness, and drowsiness.

Toxicity

The toxicity of levodopa + benserazide is very low. Taking more than the prescribed dose may lead to serious side effects and should be avoided.

Precaution

Patients taking levodopa + benserazide should be monitored for changes in heart rhythm and blood pressure. It is important to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications that you are taking, including vitamins and herbal supplements.

Interaction

Levodopa + benserazide should not be taken with certain drugs such as non-selective monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or antiemetics, as this may lead to serious side effects.

Disease Interaction

Patients taking levodopa + benserazide should inform their healthcare provider if they have any kidney or liver problems, diabetes, or a history of heart rhythm or blood pressure problems.

Drug Interaction

Levodopa + benserazide should not be taken with certain drugs, such as non-selective MAOIs, anticholinergics, or antiemetics.

Food Interactions

Levodopa + benserazide should be taken with food. It is important to discuss any food or herb interactions with your healthcare provider.

Pregnancy Use

Levodopa + benserazide should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefits justify the risks.

Lactation Use

Levodopa + benserazide should not be used during lactation.

Acute Overdose

In case of overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include cardiac arrhythmias, confusion, drowsiness, and coma.

Contraindication

Levodopa + benserazide should not be used in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, bladder blockage, or urinary retention.

Use Directions

Levodopa + benserazide should be taken orally with food, and it can be taken with or without water. The dosage should be gradually increased until the most effective dose is reached.

Storage Condition

Levodopa + benserazide should be stored at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of levodopa + benserazide is not known.

Half Life

The biological half-life of levodopa + benserazide is approximately 5 minutes in normal individuals.

Clearance

The clearance of levodopa + benserazide is not known.

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