Carbidopa

Carbidopa is used to treat symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. This drug is also prescribed to treat symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and encephalitis that resemble Parkinson’s disease symptoms. This drug is given in conjunction with levadopa, a drug that the brain converts into dopamine. Carbidopa stops levadopa from working too quickly so that patients suffer less side effects from levadopa.

Warnings/Side Effects

Carbidopa and levadopa should be given at the same time for maximum effectiveness. Doses should be twelve hours apart to minimize side effects or problems.

Some people on this drug experience nausea and vomiting. Carbidopa and levadopa can also cause uncontrolled shaking and tremors and may also cause seizures in some people. Some patients experience severe mood swings while on this drug, which can lead to suicidal thoughts and self-harming behavior.