An Introduction to Sinemet Side Effects
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with
Sinemet® (
carbidopa-levodopa). However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. Many people tolerate it well, at least initially. If side effects do occur, they are often minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. However, many people experience significant and sometimes intolerable side effects after several years of use.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Sinemet. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Sinemet side effects with you.)
Bothersome Side Effects of Sinemet
Although Sinemet can cause some serious side effects, many side effects of the medication are merely bothersome and often require no treatment. Some of these side effects of Sinemet include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain (stomach pain), diarrhea, or constipation
- General weakness or fatigue
- Increased sweating or dark (red, brown, or black) saliva, sweat, or urine
- Loss of appetite, weight loss, or weight gain
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Dry mouth, taste changes, or drooling
- Shoulder, leg, or back pain
- Muscle cramps
- Drowsiness or insomnia
- Headaches
- Increased sex drive (libido)
- Hair loss
- Gas or hiccups
- Teeth grinding
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs, such as a bladder infection)
- Coughing
- Flushing or hot flashes.
