Sinemet

What is it?

An anti-Parkinsonism preparation combining a dopamine precursor and dopa decarboxylase inhibitor available in the form of tablets. '62.5' are scored, oval, yellow tablets contain ing 50mg of levodopa and 12.5mg carbidopa (as monohydrate) marked DPP 520.Plus' are scored, oval, yellow tablets containing 100mg of levodopa and 25mg of carbidopa as monohydrate, marked DPP 650. '110' are scored, oval, blue tablets containing 100mg of levodopa and 10mg of carbidopa as monohydrate marked DPP 647. '275' are scored, oval, blue tablets containing 250mg of levodopa and 25mg of carbidopa as monohydrate marked DPP 654. Also, SINEMET CR, oval, peach-coloured, continuous-release tablets containing 200mg of levodopa and 50mg of carbidopa as monohydrate marked 521 and DPP. Also, HALF SINEMET CR, oval, pink, continuous-release tablets containing 100mg of levodopa and 25mg of carbidopa as monohydrate marked 601 and DPP.

Medical Uses

Parkinsons disease.

Dosage

Adults over 18 years, not receiving levodopa, lx '62.5' or 1 x 'Plus' tablet 3 times each day at first increasing by lof same tablet every day or second day to the equivalent of 8 'Plus' tablets each day. Also, consult manufacturer's literature. Or, using Sinemet CR, 1 tablet twice each day in first instance, if not receiving levodopa, then adjusted according to response. If patients are receiving levodopa, manufacturer's literature should be consulted regarding dosages of Sinemet. Special cure: liver or kidney disease, disease of heart or heart blood vessels, endocrine disorders, stomach ulcer, wide angle glaucoma. Liver, kidney and heart function should be monitored and blood values checked regularly if patients are taking drug long-term.

Avoid Use

Children, pregnancy, breastfeeding, narrow angle glaucoma, history of malignant melanoma, severe psychoses.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Maois, sympathomimetics, antihypertensives, drugs acting on central amines.

Known Side Effects

Cns and heart effects, low blood pressure on rising, discolouration of urine, vomiting, nausea, involuntary muscle movements, anorexia.

Manufacturer

BMS.