Warnings and precautions to be aware of prior to taking Sinemet include the following:
Because Sinemet can activate a malignant melanoma, it should not be used by anyone with a suspicious, undiagnosed skin lesion or a history of melanoma.
The medication can cause involuntary muscle movements called dyskinesia. Although not typically dangerous, dyskinesia is usually quite disturbing and intolerable. If you develop a dyskinesia while taking Sinemet, your healthcare provider may need to decrease your Sinemet dosage, or you may need to stop taking the drug.
Sinemet can cause or worsen many mental illnesses, due to its effects on dopamine (a brain chemical). Let your healthcare provider know if you have a history of such problems before taking the drug.
If you have heart problems, lung problems, ulcers, or kidney or liver disease, check with your healthcare provider before taking Sinemet. In some cases, this drug may not be the best choice for you.
Stopping the medication too quickly can cause a dangerous condition known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS). Do not stop taking Sinemet without your healthcare provider's approval and supervision. Let your healthcare provider know if you develop any signs of NMS, such as:
People with glaucoma may not be able to take the drug safely. Sinemet is not recommended for people with narrow-angle glaucoma. People with adequately treated wide-angle glaucoma may take Sinemet, although careful monitoring of the condition may be necessary.
The medication may cause you to fall asleep during the day, sometimes without warning. This can be especially dangerous if you are driving a car or operating heavy machinery. In addition, this can happen long after you start taking Sinemet. Ask your healthcare provider if you should stop driving a car or operating heavy machinery while taking the drug.
Sinemet can cause dark (red, brown, or black) saliva, sweat, or urine. Although this is not dangerous, it can be quite bothersome.
Sinemet is considered a pregnancy Category C medication. This means that it may not be safe for use during pregnancy, although the full risks are not known (see Sinemet and Pregnancy).
Sinemet passes through breast milk. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or plan to start, discuss this with your healthcare provider prior to taking the drug (see Sinemet and Breastfeeding).
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