Anti-Parkinson agent (Dopamine precursor)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Levodopa/Carbidopa is a combination medicine that works by increasing a natural chemical called dopamine in your brain — dopamine helps control your body movements, and this drug helps replace what your body is no longer making enough of.
Levodopa crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted to dopamine by aromatic amino acid decarboxylase, replenishing depleted dopamine in the basal ganglia to restore motor control. Carbidopa inhibits peripheral aromatic amino acid decarboxylase, preventing premature levodopa conversion outside the central nervous system and increasing brain bioavailability.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
The usual starting dose is one tablet of 25mg/100mg (Carbidopa/Levodopa) taken 3 times a day. Your doctor will gradually increase the dose based on how you respond. Take it on an empty stomach or with a light meal — heavy protein-rich foods like beans, meat, or eggs can reduce how well it works. Swallow the tablet whole with water.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed one.
This is a prescription medicine — do not buy it from roadside sellers or take someone else's Parkinson's medication, as the dose must be carefully adjusted by your doctor. Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine on your own, as it can cause a dangerous reaction with severe stiffness and high fever. If you notice unusual urges like compulsive gambling or spending, report to your doctor immediately as this can be a side effect.
Do not take this medicine with drugs called MAO inhibitors (some medicines used for depression) — this combination can cause dangerously high blood pressure. Iron supplements and multivitamins containing iron should be taken at least 2 hours apart from this drug as they reduce its effectiveness. Avoid drinking alcohol as it can increase dizziness and drowsiness.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Levodopa; with your other drugs?
This medicine is not considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — talk to your doctor before taking it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so do not leave it in your car or near a window. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from humidity, and always keep it out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.