Levodopa Injury Lawyer

Levopdopa, also marketed as Atamet, Madopar, Parcopa, Prolopa, Sinemet, and Stalevo, among others, is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, dopamine-responsive dystonia, and shingles (herpes zoster).

Levodopa works by increasing concentrations of the dopamine that becomes deficient in the conditions being treated. L-Dopa in the medication bypasses the blood-brain-barrier and is converted into dopamine in the central nervous system. It is also converted into dopamine in the peripheral nervous system, however, and this latter property is the cause of many of its adverse effects. For this reason, Levodopa is usually administered along with a peripheral DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor such as carbidopa or benserazide.

There are still numerous potential adverse effects due to the central nervous system effects of levodopa, including dyskinesias (involuntary movements). There are also numerous contraindications and potentially dangerous interactions, including those from an improper timing and/or dosages of L-Dopa and decarboxylase inhibitor combinations. And because patients react very differently to one another to treatment with these types of medications, the therapy must be individualized.

Adverse reactions for which levodopa should be discontinued and medical attention immediately sought include:

• Allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, closing of the throat, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• Involuntary movements of a body part
• Seizures
• Persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Fluttering in the chest or irregular heart beat
• Marked changes in mood or behavior
• Suicidal thoughts or depression

Adverse reactions for which levodopa should continue to be taken and the prescribing physician alerted include:

• Mild nausea or vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Constipation
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Muscle twitches or hand tremor
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Confusion, insomnia, or nightmares
• Anxiety or agitation
• Darkening of the sweat or urine
• Fatigue

If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of taking Levodopa, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a qualified pharmaceutical injury attorney for an evaluation of your case.