Co-careldopa

About co-careldopa

Co-careldopa contains two ingredients carbidopa and levodopa. Co-careldopa is used to relieve the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. The way in which Parkinson's disease affects the brain to produce symptoms is not yet fully understood. A link between a reduction in the amount of a natural chemical in the brain known as dopamine has been found; this lack of dopamine causes the symptoms of Parkinsonism such as loss of muscle control, stiffness and tremor.

Levodopa is converted into dopamine, increasing the level in the brain.

Carbidopa prevents levodopa being broken down in the body before it has had time to pass into the brain; so that more levodopa is available in the brain to be converted into dopamine. The increased level of dopamine in the brain relieves the symptoms.

Before taking co-careldopa

Before taking co-careldopa make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from lung or breathing problems.
• If you suffer from glaucoma (increased eye pressure), diabetes, or osteomalacia (weakening of the bones).
• If you suffer from hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland), Cushing's syndrome (high levels of cortisol) or phaeochromocytoma (a growth on the adrenal glands).
• If you have ever had convulsions.
• If you have liver or kidney problems.
• If you have ever had a stomach ulcer.
• If you suffer from heart or blood vessel problems.
• If you have ever suffered from a melanoma (skin cancer).
• If you have ever had a severe mental illness.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take co-careldopa

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to take co-careldopa at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses. Try to avoid taking co-careldopa with a heavy meal.
• Controlled release tablets: Swallow the tablets whole, do not crush, break or chew them.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
• Duodopa® gel: Your nurse will tell you how to use the pump and cassette. Use a fresh cassette each day.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be checked. During the first few weeks of treatment your dose may require adjusting to suit your individual needs. Your doctor may also want you to have liver, kidney, heart and blood tests whilst you are taking co-careldopa.
• You may have to take co-careldopa for several weeks before you feel the full benefit.
• As your condition improves and your body movements become easier, be careful not to overdo physical activities. Physical activities must be increased gradually to allow your body to adjust to changing balance, circulation and co-ordination. This is especially important if you are elderly.
• Do not stop taking co-careldopa without speaking to your doctor first.
• If you are diabetic, you may need to monitor your blood glucose levels more frequently. Your doctor will be able to advise you about this.
• Co-careldopa may cause a reddish discolouration of urine and other body fluids. This is completely harmless and is no cause for concern.
• In Parkinson's disease there is a small increased chance of skin problems developing, so your doctor may arrange for you to see a skin specialist from time to time. If you notice any unusual patches of skin, let your doctor know.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your co-careldopa.

Can co-careldopa cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store co-careldopa

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• If you have been prescribed Duodopa® gel, store the cassettes containing the gel in a refrigerator until they are required.

Important information about all medicines