Drug reference
carbidopa-levodopa
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Central Nervous System (Anti Parkinsonian Drugs)
Mechanism of action
Carbidopa: Inhibits aromatic amino-acid decarboxylase in peripheral tissues; this, in turn, inhibits peripheral breakdown of levodopa, thereby increasing availability of levodopa at blood-brain barrier and allowing a lower levodopa dose. Levodopa: Metabolic precursor of dopamine, a neurotransmitter depleted in Parkinson disease
Common side effects
- Agitation
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Anxiety
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is carbidopa-levodopa?
carbidopa-levodopa belongs to: Central Nervous System.
How does carbidopa-levodopa work?
Carbidopa: Inhibits aromatic amino-acid decarboxylase in peripheral tissues; this, in turn, inhibits peripheral breakdown of levodopa, thereby increasing availability of levodopa at blood-brain barrier and allowing a lower levodopa dose. Levodopa: Metabolic precursor of dopamine, a neurotransmitter depleted in Parkinson disease
What are the common side effects of carbidopa-levodopa?
Agitation, Constipation, Nausea, Confusion, Anxiety
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.