Levodopa is indicated for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and its associated symptoms, including tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia.

Parkinson's Disease

• Levodopa is usually available in combination with carbidopa.
• The dosage and administration of levodopa depend on the patient's age, weight, and the severity of the disease. It is usually administered orally, with or without food. The recommended initial dose is 100 mg three times daily, with gradual increases up to a maximum of 2000 mg per day.

Side effects associated with Levodopa include-

• choreiform
• dystonic
• involuntary movements
• nausea
• chest pain
• hallucination
• paranoia
• asthenia
• hypotension
• phlebitis
• hypertension
• agranulocytosis

Involuntary Movement

Nausea

Chest pain

Hallucination

• Levodopa should be used with caution in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or arrhythmias.
• Patients with a history of psychosis or depression should be monitored closely during levodopa administration, as it may exacerbate these conditions.
• Levodopa may interact with other medications, including antipsychotics, antidepressants, and antihypertensive agents, leading to adverse effects.
• Patients taking levodopa should avoid high-protein foods, as they may reduce the drug's effectiveness.
• Levodopa should not be used during pregnancy, as it may harm the developing fetus.