Levodopa is a precursor of dopamine and is primarily used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Levodopa is metabolized to dopamine after entering the blood-brain barrier. Hence, it is combined with Carbidopa, which restricts its metabolism until it reaches the blood-brain barrier. Hypertension, gastrointestinal bleeding, nausea, arrhythmias, loss of hair, hallucinations, etc., are the adverse effects of using Levodopa.
On-off Phenomenon of Levodopa in Parkinson's
Levodopa is a drug used for Parkinson’s disease that causes an On-off phenomenon. Read the below article to know more about its side effects and treatment.