Lodosyn Uses

Lodosyn is used for treating Parkinson's disease and Parkinson-like symptoms due to other causes, such as manganese poisoning, carbon monoxide poisoning, or encephalitis. It is always used in combination with levodopa products, as it has no activity against Parkinson's disease when used alone. At this time, there are no universally accepted off-label Lodosyn uses, and the drug is not approved for use in children.

 

Lodosyn Uses: An Overview

Lodosyn® (carbidopa) is a prescription Parkinson's disease medication. It is always used in combination with levodopa products (Sinemet®, Sinemet® CR, Parcopa®, or Stalevo®). In addition to treating Parkinson's disease, Lodosyn is also approved to treat Parkinson-like symptoms due to carbon monoxide poisoning, manganese poisoning, or encephalitis (inflammation or infection of the brain).
 
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that results from the loss of neurons in a region of the brain that controls movement. This creates a shortage of the brain-signaling chemical (neurotransmitter) known as dopamine, causing movement problems that are characteristic of Parkinson's disease. The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is not currently known.
 
Although early symptoms of Parkinson's disease may be subtle, people will eventually develop a characteristic tremor (trembling or shaking) of a limb, especially when the body is at rest. As the disease progresses, symptoms may worsen and new ones may appear.
 
Depending on the severity of a person's symptoms, Parkinson's disease treatment can include:
 
When used alone, Lodosyn has no activity against Parkinson's disease, which is why it is always combined with levodopa.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;