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Sinemet
Tablets
Chemical Name: CARBIDOPA (KAR-bi-doe-pa) and LEVODOPA (LEE-voe-doe-pa)
Common uses
This medicine is an antidyskinetic combination used to treat Parkinson's disease. It is also used to treat Parkinson's disease-like conditions that may occur due to certain injuries or diseases of the nervous system. This medicine may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Before using
Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE if you are also taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) used for depression. ADDITIONAL MONITORING OF YOUR DOSE OR CONDITION may be needed if you are taking medicine used to treat mood or emotional disorders (phenothiazines). Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions or allergies. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about using this medicine.
Directions
Follow the directions for taking this medicine provided by your doctor. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from heat and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Cautions
DO NOT STOP TAKING THIS MEDICINE without checking with your doctor. KEEP ALL DOCTOR APPOINTMENTS while you are taking this medicine. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR if your symptoms become worse. BEFORE YOU HAVE ANY MEDICAL OR DENTAL TREATMENTS, EMERGENCY CARE, OR SURGERY, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using this medicine. THIS MEDICINE MAY CAUSE dizziness. DO NOT DRIVE, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine. If dizziness occurs, sit up or stand up slowly. Diets high in protein may prevent your body's ability to absorb this medicine. Dietary protein should be eaten evenly throughout the day. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. THIS MEDICINE MAY CAUSE darkening of your urine. There is no need for concern. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine. IF YOU HAVE DIABETES MELLITUS, this medicine may cause false test results with some urine glucose or urine ketone tests. Check with your doctor before you adjust the dose of your diabetes medicine or change your diet.
Possible side effects
SIDE EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment, include stomach upset, loss of appetite, dry mouth, change in taste, headache, or dizziness. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience vomiting; severe abdominal pain; unusual or painful movements of face, eyelids, mouth, tongue, arms, hands, or legs; diarrhea; chest pain; trouble sleeping; depression; or confusion. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
If you take too much
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include irregular heartbeat and muscle spasms.
Additional information
DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
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