Find Medicines

This is indicated in the regular treatment of asthma. They are also indicated in the symptomatic treatment of severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with a history of repeated exacerbations despite regular therapy with long-acting bronchodilators.

Budesonide: It is an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid that exhibits potent glucocorticoid activity and weak mineralocorticoid activity. Inflammation is an important component in the pathogenesis of asthma. Corticosteroids have a wide range of inhibitory activities against multiple cell types (e.g., mast cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, macrophages and lymphocytes) and mediators (e.g., histamine, eicosanoids, leukotrienes, and cytokines) involved in allergic and non-allergic mediated inflammation. These anti-inflammatory actions of corticosteroids may contribute to their efficacy in asthma.

Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate: It is a long-acting, selective β2 - adrenergic agonist with a rapid onset of action. Inhaled Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate BP acts locally in the lungs as a bronchodilator. The pharmacological effects of β2-adrenoceptor agonist drugs are attributable to the stimulation of intracellular adenyl cyclase, the enzyme that catalyses the conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to cyclic AMP. Increased cyclic AMP levels cause relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle and inhibit the release of mediators of immediate hypersensitivity from the cells, especially from mast cells.

Inhaler (For Asthma)-

• Adults and adolescents (12 years and older): The recommended maintenance dose is 1 puff twice daily or 2 puffs once daily. For some patients a maintenance dose of 2 puffs twice daily may be appropriate (for 160/4.5 mcg/inhalation only). Patients should take 1 additional puff as needed in response to symptoms. If symptoms persist after a few minutes, the additional puff should be taken. Not more than 6 puffs should be taken on any single occasion.

• Children: The usual maintenance dose is 1 -2 puffs once or twice daily. Patients should take 1 additional puff as needed in response to symptoms. If symptoms persist after a few minutes, the additional puff should be taken. Not more than 4 puffs should be taken on any single occasion.

Inhalation Capsule (For Asthma): There are two alternative dosage regimens for the treatment of asthma with Budesonide and Formoterol combination. Budesonide and Formoterol 100 & 200 Inhalation Capsule maintenance and reliever therapy.
Adults and adolescents (12 years and older):

• Maintenance dose: Budesonide and Formoterol 100 & 200 Inhalation Capsule twice daily
• Reliever dose: 1 additional Inhalation Capsule as needed in response to symptoms. If symptoms persist after a few minutes, an additional Inhalation Capsule should be taken. Not more than 6 Inhalation Capsule should be taken on any single occasion. A total daily dose of more than 8 Inhalation Capsule is not normally needed, however, a total daily dose of up to 12 Inhalation Capsule can be used temporarily.

Children (4 years and older):

• Maintenance dose: Budesonide and Formoterol 100 Inhalation Capsule once daily.
• Reliever dose: 1 additional Inhalation Capsule as needed in response to symptoms. If symptoms persist after a few minutes, an additional Inhalation Capsule should be taken. Not more than 4 Inhalation Capsule should be taken on any single occasion. A total daily dose of more than 4 Inhalation Capsule is not normally needed, however, a total daily dose of up to 8 Inhalation Capsule could be used temporarily.

Inhalation Capsule (For COPD): Adults (40 years and older)

• 200 Inhalation Capsule: 2 Inhalation Capsule twice daily. Maximum daily maintenance dose: 4 Inhalation Capsule
• 400 Inhalation Capsule: 1 Inhalation Capsule twice daily. Maximum daily maintenance dose: 2 Inhalation Capsule.

Using an Inhaler seems simple, but most patients do not know how to use it in the right way. If the Inhaler is used in the wrong way, less medicine can reach the lungs. Correct and regular use of the Inhaler will prevent or lessen the severity of asthma attacks.

Following simple steps can help to use Inhaler effectively (According to "National Asthma Guidelines for Medical Practitioners" published by Asthma Association):

1. Take off the cap.
2. Shake the inhaler (at least six times) vigorously before each use.
3. If the inhaler is new or if it has not been used for a week or more, shake it well and release one puff into the air to make sure that it works.
4. Breathe out as full as comfortably possible & hold the inhaler upright.
5. Place the actuator into mouth between the teeth and close lips around the mouthpiece.
6. While breathing deeply and slowly through the mouth, press down firmly add fully on the canister to release medicine.
7. Remove the inhaler from mouth. Continue holding breath for at least for 10 seconds or as long as it is comfortable.
8. If doctor has prescribed more than one inhalation per treatment, wait 1 minute between puffs (inhalations). Shake the inhaler well and repeat steps 4 to 7.
9. After use, replace the cap on the mouthpiece. After each treatment, rinse mouth with water.
10. Check your technique in front of a mirror from time to time, if you see a white mist during the inhalation, you may not have closed your lips properly around mouthpiece, or you may not be breathing in as you press the can. This indicates failure of technique. If this happens, repeat the procedure from step 4 carefully.

Instructions for Cleaning Inhaler: Clean your Inhaler at least once a week. Remove canister and rinse the plastic actuator and cap in warm water but do not put the metal canister into water. Dry the actuator and cap thoroughly and gently replace the metal canister into the actuator with a twisting motion. Put the cap on the mouthpiece.

Budesonide: Hoarseness, and candidiasis (thrush) of the mouth and throat can occur in some patients. Cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions have been reported.

Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate: Tremor, palpitations, and headache have been reported. Cardiac arrhythmias, muscle cramps, and hypersensitivity reactions, including rash, oedema, and angio-oedema, may occur in some patients.

Hypersensitivity to Budesonide, Formoterol or to Lactose.

Treatment with Budesonide and Formoterol combination should not be initiated to treat a severe exacerbation or if patients have significantly worsening or acutely deteriorating asthma.

Concomitant treatment with Ritonavir, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole or other potent CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.

Administration of Budesonide & Formoterol Fumarate in pregnant women and lactating mother should only be considered if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the foetus

It is recommended that the height of children receiving prolonged treatment with inhaled corticosteroids is regularly monitored. If growth is slowed, therapy should be re evaluated with the aim of reducing the dose of inhaled corticosteroid. The benefits of the corticosteroid therapy and the possible risks of growth suppression must be carefully weighed. In addition consideration should be given to referring the patient to a paediatric respiratory specialist.

Protect from light, store in cool & dry place. Do not store above 30° C. Keep out of the reach of children. Protect from freezing.

This is indicated in the regular treatment of asthma. They are also indicated in the symptomatic treatment of severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with a history of repeated exacerbations despite regular therapy with long-acting bronchodilators.

Budesonide: It is an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid that exhibits potent glucocorticoid activity and weak mineralocorticoid activity. Inflammation is an important component in the pathogenesis of asthma. Corticosteroids have a wide range of inhibitory activities against multiple cell types (e.g., mast cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, macrophages and lymphocytes) and mediators (e.g., histamine, eicosanoids, leukotrienes, and cytokines) involved in allergic and non-allergic mediated inflammation. These anti-inflammatory actions of corticosteroids may contribute to their efficacy in asthma.

Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate: It is a long-acting, selective β2 - adrenergic agonist with a rapid onset of action. Inhaled Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate BP acts locally in the lungs as a bronchodilator. The pharmacological effects of β2-adrenoceptor agonist drugs are attributable to the stimulation of intracellular adenyl cyclase, the enzyme that catalyses the conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to cyclic AMP. Increased cyclic AMP levels cause relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle and inhibit the release of mediators of immediate hypersensitivity from the cells, especially from mast cells.

Inhaler (For Asthma)-

• Adults and adolescents (12 years and older): The recommended maintenance dose is 1 puff twice daily or 2 puffs once daily. For some patients a maintenance dose of 2 puffs twice daily may be appropriate (for 160/4.5 mcg/inhalation only). Patients should take 1 additional puff as needed in response to symptoms. If symptoms persist after a few minutes, the additional puff should be taken. Not more than 6 puffs should be taken on any single occasion.

• Children: The usual maintenance dose is 1 -2 puffs once or twice daily. Patients should take 1 additional puff as needed in response to symptoms. If symptoms persist after a few minutes, the additional puff should be taken. Not more than 4 puffs should be taken on any single occasion.

Inhalation Capsule (For Asthma): There are two alternative dosage regimens for the treatment of asthma with Budesonide and Formoterol combination. Budesonide and Formoterol 100 & 200 Inhalation Capsule maintenance and reliever therapy.
Adults and adolescents (12 years and older):

• Maintenance dose: Budesonide and Formoterol 100 & 200 Inhalation Capsule twice daily
• Reliever dose: 1 additional Inhalation Capsule as needed in response to symptoms. If symptoms persist after a few minutes, an additional Inhalation Capsule should be taken. Not more than 6 Inhalation Capsule should be taken on any single occasion. A total daily dose of more than 8 Inhalation Capsule is not normally needed, however, a total daily dose of up to 12 Inhalation Capsule can be used temporarily.

Children (4 years and older):

• Maintenance dose: Budesonide and Formoterol 100 Inhalation Capsule once daily.
• Reliever dose: 1 additional Inhalation Capsule as needed in response to symptoms. If symptoms persist after a few minutes, an additional Inhalation Capsule should be taken. Not more than 4 Inhalation Capsule should be taken on any single occasion. A total daily dose of more than 4 Inhalation Capsule is not normally needed, however, a total daily dose of up to 8 Inhalation Capsule could be used temporarily.

Inhalation Capsule (For COPD): Adults (40 years and older)

• 200 Inhalation Capsule: 2 Inhalation Capsule twice daily. Maximum daily maintenance dose: 4 Inhalation Capsule
• 400 Inhalation Capsule: 1 Inhalation Capsule twice daily. Maximum daily maintenance dose: 2 Inhalation Capsule.

Using an Inhaler seems simple, but most patients do not know how to use it in the right way. If the Inhaler is used in the wrong way, less medicine can reach the lungs. Correct and regular use of the Inhaler will prevent or lessen the severity of asthma attacks.

Following simple steps can help to use Inhaler effectively (According to "National Asthma Guidelines for Medical Practitioners" published by Asthma Association):

1. Take off the cap.
2. Shake the inhaler (at least six times) vigorously before each use.
3. If the inhaler is new or if it has not been used for a week or more, shake it well and release one puff into the air to make sure that it works.
4. Breathe out as full as comfortably possible & hold the inhaler upright.
5. Place the actuator into mouth between the teeth and close lips around the mouthpiece.
6. While breathing deeply and slowly through the mouth, press down firmly add fully on the canister to release medicine.
7. Remove the inhaler from mouth. Continue holding breath for at least for 10 seconds or as long as it is comfortable.
8. If doctor has prescribed more than one inhalation per treatment, wait 1 minute between puffs (inhalations). Shake the inhaler well and repeat steps 4 to 7.
9. After use, replace the cap on the mouthpiece. After each treatment, rinse mouth with water.
10. Check your technique in front of a mirror from time to time, if you see a white mist during the inhalation, you may not have closed your lips properly around mouthpiece, or you may not be breathing in as you press the can. This indicates failure of technique. If this happens, repeat the procedure from step 4 carefully.

Instructions for Cleaning Inhaler: Clean your Inhaler at least once a week. Remove canister and rinse the plastic actuator and cap in warm water but do not put the metal canister into water. Dry the actuator and cap thoroughly and gently replace the metal canister into the actuator with a twisting motion. Put the cap on the mouthpiece.

Budesonide: Hoarseness, and candidiasis (thrush) of the mouth and throat can occur in some patients. Cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions have been reported.

Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate: Tremor, palpitations, and headache have been reported. Cardiac arrhythmias, muscle cramps, and hypersensitivity reactions, including rash, oedema, and angio-oedema, may occur in some patients.

Hypersensitivity to Budesonide, Formoterol or to Lactose.

Treatment with Budesonide and Formoterol combination should not be initiated to treat a severe exacerbation or if patients have significantly worsening or acutely deteriorating asthma.

Concomitant treatment with Ritonavir, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole or other potent CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.

Administration of Budesonide & Formoterol Fumarate in pregnant women and lactating mother should only be considered if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the foetus

It is recommended that the height of children receiving prolonged treatment with inhaled corticosteroids is regularly monitored. If growth is slowed, therapy should be re evaluated with the aim of reducing the dose of inhaled corticosteroid. The benefits of the corticosteroid therapy and the possible risks of growth suppression must be carefully weighed. In addition consideration should be given to referring the patient to a paediatric respiratory specialist.

Protect from light, store in cool & dry place. Do not store above 30° C. Keep out of the reach of children. Protect from freezing.

This is indicated in the regular treatment of asthma. They are also indicated in the symptomatic treatment of severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with a history of repeated exacerbations despite regular therapy with long-acting bronchodilators.

Budesonide: It is an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid that exhibits potent glucocorticoid activity and weak mineralocorticoid activity. Inflammation is an important component in the pathogenesis of asthma. Corticosteroids have a wide range of inhibitory activities against multiple cell types (e.g., mast cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, macrophages and lymphocytes) and mediators (e.g., histamine, eicosanoids, leukotrienes, and cytokines) involved in allergic and non-allergic mediated inflammation. These anti-inflammatory actions of corticosteroids may contribute to their efficacy in asthma.

Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate: It is a long-acting, selective β2 - adrenergic agonist with a rapid onset of action. Inhaled Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate BP acts locally in the lungs as a bronchodilator. The pharmacological effects of β2-adrenoceptor agonist drugs are attributable to the stimulation of intracellular adenyl cyclase, the enzyme that catalyses the conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to cyclic AMP. Increased cyclic AMP levels cause relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle and inhibit the release of mediators of immediate hypersensitivity from the cells, especially from mast cells.

Inhaler (For Asthma)-

• Adults and adolescents (12 years and older): The recommended maintenance dose is 1 puff twice daily or 2 puffs once daily. For some patients a maintenance dose of 2 puffs twice daily may be appropriate (for 160/4.5 mcg/inhalation only). Patients should take 1 additional puff as needed in response to symptoms. If symptoms persist after a few minutes, the additional puff should be taken. Not more than 6 puffs should be taken on any single occasion.

• Children: The usual maintenance dose is 1 -2 puffs once or twice daily. Patients should take 1 additional puff as needed in response to symptoms. If symptoms persist after a few minutes, the additional puff should be taken. Not more than 4 puffs should be taken on any single occasion.

Inhalation Capsule (For Asthma): There are two alternative dosage regimens for the treatment of asthma with Budesonide and Formoterol combination. Budesonide and Formoterol 100 & 200 Inhalation Capsule maintenance and reliever therapy.
Adults and adolescents (12 years and older):

• Maintenance dose: Budesonide and Formoterol 100 & 200 Inhalation Capsule twice daily
• Reliever dose: 1 additional Inhalation Capsule as needed in response to symptoms. If symptoms persist after a few minutes, an additional Inhalation Capsule should be taken. Not more than 6 Inhalation Capsule should be taken on any single occasion. A total daily dose of more than 8 Inhalation Capsule is not normally needed, however, a total daily dose of up to 12 Inhalation Capsule can be used temporarily.

Children (4 years and older):

• Maintenance dose: Budesonide and Formoterol 100 Inhalation Capsule once daily.
• Reliever dose: 1 additional Inhalation Capsule as needed in response to symptoms. If symptoms persist after a few minutes, an additional Inhalation Capsule should be taken. Not more than 4 Inhalation Capsule should be taken on any single occasion. A total daily dose of more than 4 Inhalation Capsule is not normally needed, however, a total daily dose of up to 8 Inhalation Capsule could be used temporarily.

Inhalation Capsule (For COPD): Adults (40 years and older)

• 200 Inhalation Capsule: 2 Inhalation Capsule twice daily. Maximum daily maintenance dose: 4 Inhalation Capsule
• 400 Inhalation Capsule: 1 Inhalation Capsule twice daily. Maximum daily maintenance dose: 2 Inhalation Capsule.

Using an Inhaler seems simple, but most patients do not know how to use it in the right way. If the Inhaler is used in the wrong way, less medicine can reach the lungs. Correct and regular use of the Inhaler will prevent or lessen the severity of asthma attacks.

Following simple steps can help to use Inhaler effectively (According to "National Asthma Guidelines for Medical Practitioners" published by Asthma Association):

1. Take off the cap.
2. Shake the inhaler (at least six times) vigorously before each use.
3. If the inhaler is new or if it has not been used for a week or more, shake it well and release one puff into the air to make sure that it works.
4. Breathe out as full as comfortably possible & hold the inhaler upright.
5. Place the actuator into mouth between the teeth and close lips around the mouthpiece.
6. While breathing deeply and slowly through the mouth, press down firmly add fully on the canister to release medicine.
7. Remove the inhaler from mouth. Continue holding breath for at least for 10 seconds or as long as it is comfortable.
8. If doctor has prescribed more than one inhalation per treatment, wait 1 minute between puffs (inhalations). Shake the inhaler well and repeat steps 4 to 7.
9. After use, replace the cap on the mouthpiece. After each treatment, rinse mouth with water.
10. Check your technique in front of a mirror from time to time, if you see a white mist during the inhalation, you may not have closed your lips properly around mouthpiece, or you may not be breathing in as you press the can. This indicates failure of technique. If this happens, repeat the procedure from step 4 carefully.

Instructions for Cleaning Inhaler: Clean your Inhaler at least once a week. Remove canister and rinse the plastic actuator and cap in warm water but do not put the metal canister into water. Dry the actuator and cap thoroughly and gently replace the metal canister into the actuator with a twisting motion. Put the cap on the mouthpiece.

Budesonide: Hoarseness, and candidiasis (thrush) of the mouth and throat can occur in some patients. Cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions have been reported.

Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate: Tremor, palpitations, and headache have been reported. Cardiac arrhythmias, muscle cramps, and hypersensitivity reactions, including rash, oedema, and angio-oedema, may occur in some patients.

Hypersensitivity to Budesonide, Formoterol or to Lactose.

Treatment with Budesonide and Formoterol combination should not be initiated to treat a severe exacerbation or if patients have significantly worsening or acutely deteriorating asthma.

Concomitant treatment with Ritonavir, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole or other potent CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.

Administration of Budesonide & Formoterol Fumarate in pregnant women and lactating mother should only be considered if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than any possible risk to the foetus

It is recommended that the height of children receiving prolonged treatment with inhaled corticosteroids is regularly monitored. If growth is slowed, therapy should be re evaluated with the aim of reducing the dose of inhaled corticosteroid. The benefits of the corticosteroid therapy and the possible risks of growth suppression must be carefully weighed. In addition consideration should be given to referring the patient to a paediatric respiratory specialist.

Protect from light, store in cool & dry place. Do not store above 30° C. Keep out of the reach of children. Protect from freezing.

Miconazole Nitrate oral gel is indicated-

• For the treatment of oral and gastrointestinal candidiasis.
• For eradication of fungal colonization in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract.
• For the treatment of super infections due to gram-positive bacteria.

Aural Anti-fungal preparations

Pharmacodynamics: Miconazole possesses an antifungal activity against the common dermatophytes and yeasts as well as an antibacterial activity against certain gram-positive bacilli and cocci. Its activity is based on the inhibition of a demethylation step in the ergosterol biosynthesis. Ergosterol, the end-product of the biosynthetic pathway and the main sterol in yeast and fungi. The disruption in production of ergosterol disrupts the fungal cell membrane, causing holes to appear in it. These holes allow the essential constituents of the fungal cells to leak out and ultimately the fungal cells die.

Pharmacokinetics: The oral bioavailability of Miconazole is low (25-30%) because there is little absorption of Miconazole from the intestinal tract. Miconazole is systemically absorbed after administration as the oral gel. Absorbed Miconazole is bound to plasma proteins (88.2%), primarily to serum albumin and red blood cells (10.6%). The absorbed portion of Miconazole oral gel is largely metabolized; less than 1% of the administered dose is excreted unchanged in the urine. The terminal plasma half-life is 20-25 hours in most patients. The elimination half-life of Miconazole is similar in any renal impaired patient.

Oropharyngeal candidosis-

• Infants 4-24 months: 1.25 ml (1⁄4 measuring spoon) of gel, applied 4 times day after meals.
• Adult and children 2 years of age and older: 2.5 ml (1⁄2 measuring spoon) of gel, applied 4 times a day after meals.

Gastrointestinal tract candidosis-

• Infants (4 months of age or above): Children and adults who have difficulty swallowing tablets: 20 mg per kg body weight per day, in four divided doses. The daily dose should not exceed 250 mg (10 ml gel) four times daily.

Missed Dose: Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. In case of next dosing time, omit the missed
dose and continue your usual course.

In case of localized lesions of the mouth, a small amount of gel may be applied 2-4 times a day directly to the affected area with a clean finger. For best results, Miconazole oral gel should be kept in contact with the affected area as long as possible. The treatment should be continued for at least a week after symptoms have disappeared. For oral candidosis, dental prosthesis should be removed at night and brushed with the gel.

Occasionally nausea and vomiting, diarrhea with long term use and rarely allergic reactions.

Miconazole is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient.

If the concomitant use of Miconazole and anticoagulant is considered, the anti-coagulant effect should be monitored and titrated. Miconazole and phenytoin plasma level should also be monitored when used concomitantly. In infants and young children, caution must be taken to ensure that the gel does not obstruct the throat.

There is no information regarding the safety of Miconazole oral gel during pregnancy. So Miconazole oral gel should be avoided in pregnant women if possible or the potential hazards should be balanced against the possible benefits. As many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Miconazole is administered to a nursing woman.

Accidental overdosage may cause vomiting and diarrhea. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. A specific antidote is not available.

keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

Chlorpheniramine Maleate is indicated in the following indications-

• Urticaria
• Sensitivity reactions
• Angioneurotic edema
• Vasomotor rhinitis
• Cough
• Common cold
• Motion sickness and
• Other allergic conditions.

Sedating Anti-histamine

Chlorpheniramine Maleate is an alkylamine antihistamine. It is one of the most potent histamine H1-receptor blocking agents which is used as a potent antihistamine. This generally causes less sedation than promethazine. Chlorpheniramine Maleate exerts its effects by blocking H1-receptor competitively.

Adult- Usual adult dose is 4 mg every 4-6 hours, maximum 24 mg daily.

Child-

• 6-12 years: 2 mg every 4-6 hours, maximum 12 mg daily.
• 2-5 years: 1 mg every 4-6 hours, maximum 6 mg daily.
• 1-2 years: 1 mg twice daily.

Below 1 year the use of Chlorpheniramine Maleate is not recommended.

Chlorpheniramine is well-tolerated, but sometimes drowsiness, dizziness, muscular weakness, and gastrointestinal upset may occur.

Chlorpheniramine is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to this agent, in newborn or premature infants.

Chlorpheniramine should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma and prostatic hypertrophy. During therapy with chlorpheniramine, caution should be taken in driving vehicles and operating machinery.

Chlorphenamine maleate has been reported to be incompatible with calcium chloride, kanamycin sulfate, noradrenaline acid tartrate, pentobarbital sodium, and meglumine adipiodone.

This drug should not be used in lactating mother and in pregnancy especially during the first trimester of pregnancy.

CNS depression (including sedation, apnea, CV collapse), CNS stimulation (including insomnia, hallucination, tremors, convulsions), tinnitus, blurred vision, dizziness, ataxia, hypotension. Stimulation and atropine-like signs and symptoms (including dry mouth, fixed dilated pupils, flushing, hyperthermia, Gl symptoms) are more likely in children.

Store in a cool (Below 25°C temperature) and dry place protected from light. Keep out of the reach of children.

Antiparkinson drugs

If 100/10 mg tablet is used: Dosage may be initiated with one tablet three or four times a day. Titration upward may be required in some patients to achieve optimum dosage of carbidopa. The dosage may be increased by one tablet every day or every other day until a total of eight tablets (two tablets q.d.s.) is reached.

For patients starting with 250/25 mg tablet: The initial dose is one half taken once or twice daily. However, this may not provide the optimal amount of Carbidopa needed by many patients. If necessary, add one-half every day or every other day until optimal response is reached. The suggested starting dosage for most patients taking more than 1500 mg of Levodopa a day is one tablet of 250/25 mg three or four times a day.

Maintenance dose: Therapy should be individualized and adjusted according to the desired therapeutic response. When more levodopa is requried, 250/25 mg tablet should be substituted at a dosage of one tablet three or four times a day. If necessary, the dosage of 250/25 mg tablet may be increased by half to one tablet every other day to a maximum of eight tablets a day. Experience with a total daily dosage greater than 200 mg Carbidopa is limited.

Adverse effects that occur frequently in patients receiving Carbidopa-Levodopa are those due to the central neuropharmacologic activity of dopamine. These reactions usually can be diminished by dosage reduction. The most common adverse effects are dyskinesias including choreiform, dystonic, and other involuntary movements and nausea.

• Body as a whole: syncope, chest pain, anorexia.
• Cardiovascular: palpitation, orthostatic effects including hypotensive episodes, hypertension, phlebitis.
• Gastrointestinal: vomiting, gastrointestinal bleeding, development of duodenal ulcer, diarrhoea, dark saliva.
• Haemotologic: leukopenia, haemolytic and non-haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis.
• Hypersensitivity: angioedema, urticaria, pruritus, Henoch-Schonlein purpura.
• Nervous System: dizziness, somnolence, paresthesia, delusions, hallucinations and paranoid ideation, depression with or without development of suicidal tendencies, dementia, dream abnormalities, agitation, confusion, increased libido.
• Respiratory: dyspnea.
• Skin: alopecia, rash, dark sweat.
• Urogenital: dark urine.

Carbidopa-Levodopa tablet is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to Carbidopa and Levodopa, and in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. Since Levodopa may activate a malignant melanoma, Carbidopa-Levodopa should not be used in patients with suspicious undiagnosed skin lesions or a history of melanoma.

Carbidopa-Levodopa is not recommended for the treatment of medicine-induced extrapyramidal reactions. Carbidopa Levodopa may be given to patients already taking Levodopa alone; however, the Levodopa must be discontinued at least 12 hours before Carbidopa-Levodopa started. Dyskinesias may occur in patients previously treated with Levodopa alone because Carbidopa permits more Levodopa to reach the brain and, thus, more dopamine to be formed. The occurrence of dyskinesias may require dosage reduction. All patients should be observed carefully for the development of depression with concomitant suicidal tendencies. Patients with past or current psychoses should be treated with caution. Carbidopa-Levodopa should be administered cautiously to patients with severe cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, renal, hepatic or endocrine disease, or a history of peptic ulcer disease or of convulsions.

Care should be exercised to patients with a history of myocardial infarction who have atriai, nodal, or ventricular arrhythmia. In such patients, cardiac function should be monitored with particular care during the period of initial dosage administration and titration. Patients with chronic wide-angle glaucoma may be treated cautiously with Carbidopa-Levodopa, provided the intraocular pressure is weli controlled and the patient monitored carefully for changes in intraocular pressure during therapy.

Symptomatic postural hypotension has occurred when Carbidopa-Levodopa is added to the treatment of a patient receiving antihypertensive medicines. Therefore, when therapy with CarbidopaLevodopa is started, dosage adjustment of the antihypertensive medicine may be required. There have been rare reports of adverse reactions, including hypertension and dyskinesia, resulting from the concomitant use of tricyclic antidepressants and Carbidopa-Levodopa. Studies demonstrate a decrease in the bioavailability of Carbidopa and/or Levodopa when it is ingested with ferrous sulphate or ferrous gluconate. Dopamine-2 receptor antagonists (e.g., phenothiazines, butyrophenones and risperidone) and isoniazid may reduce the therapeutic effects of Levodopa. In addition, the beneficial effects of Levodopa in Parkinson's disease have been reported to be reversed by phenytoin and papaverine. Patients taking these medicines with Carbidopa-Levodopa should be carefully observed for loss of therapeutic response. Concomitant therapy with selegiline and Carbidopa-Levodopa may be associated with severe orthostatic hypotension not attributable to Carbidopa-Levodopa alone.

Although the effects of CarbidopaLevodopa on human pregnancy are unknown both Levodopa and combinations of Carbidopa and Levodopa have caused visceral and skeletal malformations in rabbits. Therefore, use of CarbidopaLevodopa in women of childbearing potential requires that the anticipated benefits of the medicine be weighed against possible hazards should pregnancy occur. It is not known whether Carbidopa is excreted in human milk. Because many medicines are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the use of Carbidopa-Levodopa, taking into account the importance of the medicine to the mother.

Use in children: Safety and effectiveness of Carbidopa-Levodopa in infants and children have not been established, and its use in patients below the age of 18 years is not recommended.

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.

Antiparkinson drugs

If 100/10 mg tablet is used: Dosage may be initiated with one tablet three or four times a day. Titration upward may be required in some patients to achieve optimum dosage of carbidopa. The dosage may be increased by one tablet every day or every other day until a total of eight tablets (two tablets q.d.s.) is reached.

For patients starting with 250/25 mg tablet: The initial dose is one half taken once or twice daily. However, this may not provide the optimal amount of Carbidopa needed by many patients. If necessary, add one-half every day or every other day until optimal response is reached. The suggested starting dosage for most patients taking more than 1500 mg of Levodopa a day is one tablet of 250/25 mg three or four times a day.

Maintenance dose: Therapy should be individualized and adjusted according to the desired therapeutic response. When more levodopa is requried, 250/25 mg tablet should be substituted at a dosage of one tablet three or four times a day. If necessary, the dosage of 250/25 mg tablet may be increased by half to one tablet every other day to a maximum of eight tablets a day. Experience with a total daily dosage greater than 200 mg Carbidopa is limited.

Adverse effects that occur frequently in patients receiving Carbidopa-Levodopa are those due to the central neuropharmacologic activity of dopamine. These reactions usually can be diminished by dosage reduction. The most common adverse effects are dyskinesias including choreiform, dystonic, and other involuntary movements and nausea.

• Body as a whole: syncope, chest pain, anorexia.
• Cardiovascular: palpitation, orthostatic effects including hypotensive episodes, hypertension, phlebitis.
• Gastrointestinal: vomiting, gastrointestinal bleeding, development of duodenal ulcer, diarrhoea, dark saliva.
• Haemotologic: leukopenia, haemolytic and non-haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis.
• Hypersensitivity: angioedema, urticaria, pruritus, Henoch-Schonlein purpura.
• Nervous System: dizziness, somnolence, paresthesia, delusions, hallucinations and paranoid ideation, depression with or without development of suicidal tendencies, dementia, dream abnormalities, agitation, confusion, increased libido.
• Respiratory: dyspnea.
• Skin: alopecia, rash, dark sweat.
• Urogenital: dark urine.

Carbidopa-Levodopa tablet is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to Carbidopa and Levodopa, and in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. Since Levodopa may activate a malignant melanoma, Carbidopa-Levodopa should not be used in patients with suspicious undiagnosed skin lesions or a history of melanoma.

Carbidopa-Levodopa is not recommended for the treatment of medicine-induced extrapyramidal reactions. Carbidopa Levodopa may be given to patients already taking Levodopa alone; however, the Levodopa must be discontinued at least 12 hours before Carbidopa-Levodopa started. Dyskinesias may occur in patients previously treated with Levodopa alone because Carbidopa permits more Levodopa to reach the brain and, thus, more dopamine to be formed. The occurrence of dyskinesias may require dosage reduction. All patients should be observed carefully for the development of depression with concomitant suicidal tendencies. Patients with past or current psychoses should be treated with caution. Carbidopa-Levodopa should be administered cautiously to patients with severe cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, renal, hepatic or endocrine disease, or a history of peptic ulcer disease or of convulsions.

Care should be exercised to patients with a history of myocardial infarction who have atriai, nodal, or ventricular arrhythmia. In such patients, cardiac function should be monitored with particular care during the period of initial dosage administration and titration. Patients with chronic wide-angle glaucoma may be treated cautiously with Carbidopa-Levodopa, provided the intraocular pressure is weli controlled and the patient monitored carefully for changes in intraocular pressure during therapy.

Symptomatic postural hypotension has occurred when Carbidopa-Levodopa is added to the treatment of a patient receiving antihypertensive medicines. Therefore, when therapy with CarbidopaLevodopa is started, dosage adjustment of the antihypertensive medicine may be required. There have been rare reports of adverse reactions, including hypertension and dyskinesia, resulting from the concomitant use of tricyclic antidepressants and Carbidopa-Levodopa. Studies demonstrate a decrease in the bioavailability of Carbidopa and/or Levodopa when it is ingested with ferrous sulphate or ferrous gluconate. Dopamine-2 receptor antagonists (e.g., phenothiazines, butyrophenones and risperidone) and isoniazid may reduce the therapeutic effects of Levodopa. In addition, the beneficial effects of Levodopa in Parkinson's disease have been reported to be reversed by phenytoin and papaverine. Patients taking these medicines with Carbidopa-Levodopa should be carefully observed for loss of therapeutic response. Concomitant therapy with selegiline and Carbidopa-Levodopa may be associated with severe orthostatic hypotension not attributable to Carbidopa-Levodopa alone.

Although the effects of CarbidopaLevodopa on human pregnancy are unknown both Levodopa and combinations of Carbidopa and Levodopa have caused visceral and skeletal malformations in rabbits. Therefore, use of CarbidopaLevodopa in women of childbearing potential requires that the anticipated benefits of the medicine be weighed against possible hazards should pregnancy occur. It is not known whether Carbidopa is excreted in human milk. Because many medicines are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the use of Carbidopa-Levodopa, taking into account the importance of the medicine to the mother.

Use in children: Safety and effectiveness of Carbidopa-Levodopa in infants and children have not been established, and its use in patients below the age of 18 years is not recommended.

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.

Antiparkinson drugs

If 100/10 mg tablet is used: Dosage may be initiated with one tablet three or four times a day. Titration upward may be required in some patients to achieve optimum dosage of carbidopa. The dosage may be increased by one tablet every day or every other day until a total of eight tablets (two tablets q.d.s.) is reached.

For patients starting with 250/25 mg tablet: The initial dose is one half taken once or twice daily. However, this may not provide the optimal amount of Carbidopa needed by many patients. If necessary, add one-half every day or every other day until optimal response is reached. The suggested starting dosage for most patients taking more than 1500 mg of Levodopa a day is one tablet of 250/25 mg three or four times a day.

Maintenance dose: Therapy should be individualized and adjusted according to the desired therapeutic response. When more levodopa is requried, 250/25 mg tablet should be substituted at a dosage of one tablet three or four times a day. If necessary, the dosage of 250/25 mg tablet may be increased by half to one tablet every other day to a maximum of eight tablets a day. Experience with a total daily dosage greater than 200 mg Carbidopa is limited.

Adverse effects that occur frequently in patients receiving Carbidopa-Levodopa are those due to the central neuropharmacologic activity of dopamine. These reactions usually can be diminished by dosage reduction. The most common adverse effects are dyskinesias including choreiform, dystonic, and other involuntary movements and nausea.

• Body as a whole: syncope, chest pain, anorexia.
• Cardiovascular: palpitation, orthostatic effects including hypotensive episodes, hypertension, phlebitis.
• Gastrointestinal: vomiting, gastrointestinal bleeding, development of duodenal ulcer, diarrhoea, dark saliva.
• Haemotologic: leukopenia, haemolytic and non-haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis.
• Hypersensitivity: angioedema, urticaria, pruritus, Henoch-Schonlein purpura.
• Nervous System: dizziness, somnolence, paresthesia, delusions, hallucinations and paranoid ideation, depression with or without development of suicidal tendencies, dementia, dream abnormalities, agitation, confusion, increased libido.
• Respiratory: dyspnea.
• Skin: alopecia, rash, dark sweat.
• Urogenital: dark urine.

Carbidopa-Levodopa tablet is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to Carbidopa and Levodopa, and in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. Since Levodopa may activate a malignant melanoma, Carbidopa-Levodopa should not be used in patients with suspicious undiagnosed skin lesions or a history of melanoma.

Carbidopa-Levodopa is not recommended for the treatment of medicine-induced extrapyramidal reactions. Carbidopa Levodopa may be given to patients already taking Levodopa alone; however, the Levodopa must be discontinued at least 12 hours before Carbidopa-Levodopa started. Dyskinesias may occur in patients previously treated with Levodopa alone because Carbidopa permits more Levodopa to reach the brain and, thus, more dopamine to be formed. The occurrence of dyskinesias may require dosage reduction. All patients should be observed carefully for the development of depression with concomitant suicidal tendencies. Patients with past or current psychoses should be treated with caution. Carbidopa-Levodopa should be administered cautiously to patients with severe cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, renal, hepatic or endocrine disease, or a history of peptic ulcer disease or of convulsions.

Care should be exercised to patients with a history of myocardial infarction who have atriai, nodal, or ventricular arrhythmia. In such patients, cardiac function should be monitored with particular care during the period of initial dosage administration and titration. Patients with chronic wide-angle glaucoma may be treated cautiously with Carbidopa-Levodopa, provided the intraocular pressure is weli controlled and the patient monitored carefully for changes in intraocular pressure during therapy.

Symptomatic postural hypotension has occurred when Carbidopa-Levodopa is added to the treatment of a patient receiving antihypertensive medicines. Therefore, when therapy with CarbidopaLevodopa is started, dosage adjustment of the antihypertensive medicine may be required. There have been rare reports of adverse reactions, including hypertension and dyskinesia, resulting from the concomitant use of tricyclic antidepressants and Carbidopa-Levodopa. Studies demonstrate a decrease in the bioavailability of Carbidopa and/or Levodopa when it is ingested with ferrous sulphate or ferrous gluconate. Dopamine-2 receptor antagonists (e.g., phenothiazines, butyrophenones and risperidone) and isoniazid may reduce the therapeutic effects of Levodopa. In addition, the beneficial effects of Levodopa in Parkinson's disease have been reported to be reversed by phenytoin and papaverine. Patients taking these medicines with Carbidopa-Levodopa should be carefully observed for loss of therapeutic response. Concomitant therapy with selegiline and Carbidopa-Levodopa may be associated with severe orthostatic hypotension not attributable to Carbidopa-Levodopa alone.

Although the effects of CarbidopaLevodopa on human pregnancy are unknown both Levodopa and combinations of Carbidopa and Levodopa have caused visceral and skeletal malformations in rabbits. Therefore, use of CarbidopaLevodopa in women of childbearing potential requires that the anticipated benefits of the medicine be weighed against possible hazards should pregnancy occur. It is not known whether Carbidopa is excreted in human milk. Because many medicines are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the use of Carbidopa-Levodopa, taking into account the importance of the medicine to the mother.

Use in children: Safety and effectiveness of Carbidopa-Levodopa in infants and children have not been established, and its use in patients below the age of 18 years is not recommended.

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.

This medicine is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with Parkinson's disease and end-of-dose motor fluctuations not stabilized on levodopa/dopa decarboxylase (DDC) inhibitor treatment.

Antiparkinson drugs

Levodopa is the metabolic precursor of dopamine. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted to dopamine in the brain. Carbidopa increases the amount of levodopa that is transported into the CNS by inhibiting the decarboxylation of peripheral levodopa. Entacapone is a selective inhibitor of COMT which alters the pharmacokinetics of levodopa, resulting to increased and more sustained levodopa serum levels.

Adults: The optimum daily dose must be determined by careful titration of levodopa in each patient. Patients should be instructed to take only 1 (one) tablet per dose administration. The maximum recommended daily dose of entacapone is 2,000 mg. Usually this combination is to be used in patients who are currently treated with corresponding doses of standard release Levodopa or Dopa Decarboxylase (DDC) inhibitor and entacapone.

May be taken with or without food. Keep a consistent diet. A change in diet to foods high in protein may delay levodopa absorption & reduce amount taken up in circulation. Excessive acidity also delays stomach emptying & thus delays levodopa absorption. Iron salts may also reduce amount of levodopa available to the body. Swallow whole.

Common side effects include dyskinesia, nausea, hyperkinesia, change in urine color, diarrhea and stomach pain. Other side effects may include diarrhea, sometimes severe; colitis; hallucinations; other mental disturbances; orthostatic hypotension; rhabdomyolysis; and symptoms resembling neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a condition characterized by high fever, muscle stiffness, and confusion); fibrosis; skin cancer, etc.

Narrow-angle glaucoma, phaeochromocytoma, history of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) and/ or non-traumatic rhabdomyolysis. Severe hepatic impairment. Concurrent use of or within 14 days of discontinuing non-selective MAOIs.

Levodopa, carbidopa and entacapone together may cause dizziness and symptomatic orthostatism. Therefore, caution should be exercised when driving or using machines. As with levodopa, periodic evaluations of hepatic, hematopoietic, cardiovascular and renal function are recommended during extended therapy.

Symptomatic postural hypotension may occur when levodopa is added to the treatment of patients already receiving antihypertensive. Dose adjustment of the antihypertensive agent may be required. Dopamine receptor antagonists (e.g. some antipsychotics and antiemetics), phenytoin and papaverine may reduce the therapeutic effect of levodopa. Patients taking these medicinal products with levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination should be carefully observed for loss of therapeutic response. Since levodopa competes with certain amino acids, the absorption of Levodopa, Carbidopa & Entacapone may be impaired in some patients on high protein diet.

Pregnancy category C. The combination of levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. The safety of this combination in the infant is not known. Women should not breast-feed during treatment with this combination.

Children: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

Elderly: No dose adjustment is required for elderly patients.

Hepatic impaired patients: Should be administered cautiously to patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. Dose reduction may be needed.

Renally impaired patients: Should be administered cautiously to patients in severe renal impairment including those receiving dialysis therapy

The acute symptoms and signs of overdose include agitation, confusional state, coma, bradycardia, ventricular tachycardia, Cheyne Stokes respiration, discolorations of skin, tongue and conjunctiva, and chromaturia. Management of acute overdose with levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination is similar to acute overdose with levodopa. Pyridoxine, however, is not effective in reversing the actions of levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination. Hospitalization is advised and general supportive measures should be employed with immediate gastric lavage and repeated doses of charcoal over time.

Store in a cool and dry place. Protect from light.

This medicine is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with Parkinson's disease and end-of-dose motor fluctuations not stabilized on levodopa/dopa decarboxylase (DDC) inhibitor treatment.

Antiparkinson drugs

Levodopa is the metabolic precursor of dopamine. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted to dopamine in the brain. Carbidopa increases the amount of levodopa that is transported into the CNS by inhibiting the decarboxylation of peripheral levodopa. Entacapone is a selective inhibitor of COMT which alters the pharmacokinetics of levodopa, resulting to increased and more sustained levodopa serum levels.

Adults: The optimum daily dose must be determined by careful titration of levodopa in each patient. Patients should be instructed to take only 1 (one) tablet per dose administration. The maximum recommended daily dose of entacapone is 2,000 mg. Usually this combination is to be used in patients who are currently treated with corresponding doses of standard release Levodopa or Dopa Decarboxylase (DDC) inhibitor and entacapone.

May be taken with or without food. Keep a consistent diet. A change in diet to foods high in protein may delay levodopa absorption & reduce amount taken up in circulation. Excessive acidity also delays stomach emptying & thus delays levodopa absorption. Iron salts may also reduce amount of levodopa available to the body. Swallow whole.

Common side effects include dyskinesia, nausea, hyperkinesia, change in urine color, diarrhea and stomach pain. Other side effects may include diarrhea, sometimes severe; colitis; hallucinations; other mental disturbances; orthostatic hypotension; rhabdomyolysis; and symptoms resembling neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a condition characterized by high fever, muscle stiffness, and confusion); fibrosis; skin cancer, etc.

Narrow-angle glaucoma, phaeochromocytoma, history of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) and/ or non-traumatic rhabdomyolysis. Severe hepatic impairment. Concurrent use of or within 14 days of discontinuing non-selective MAOIs.

Levodopa, carbidopa and entacapone together may cause dizziness and symptomatic orthostatism. Therefore, caution should be exercised when driving or using machines. As with levodopa, periodic evaluations of hepatic, hematopoietic, cardiovascular and renal function are recommended during extended therapy.

Symptomatic postural hypotension may occur when levodopa is added to the treatment of patients already receiving antihypertensive. Dose adjustment of the antihypertensive agent may be required. Dopamine receptor antagonists (e.g. some antipsychotics and antiemetics), phenytoin and papaverine may reduce the therapeutic effect of levodopa. Patients taking these medicinal products with levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination should be carefully observed for loss of therapeutic response. Since levodopa competes with certain amino acids, the absorption of Levodopa, Carbidopa & Entacapone may be impaired in some patients on high protein diet.

Pregnancy category C. The combination of levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. The safety of this combination in the infant is not known. Women should not breast-feed during treatment with this combination.

Children: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

Elderly: No dose adjustment is required for elderly patients.

Hepatic impaired patients: Should be administered cautiously to patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. Dose reduction may be needed.

Renally impaired patients: Should be administered cautiously to patients in severe renal impairment including those receiving dialysis therapy

The acute symptoms and signs of overdose include agitation, confusional state, coma, bradycardia, ventricular tachycardia, Cheyne Stokes respiration, discolorations of skin, tongue and conjunctiva, and chromaturia. Management of acute overdose with levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination is similar to acute overdose with levodopa. Pyridoxine, however, is not effective in reversing the actions of levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination. Hospitalization is advised and general supportive measures should be employed with immediate gastric lavage and repeated doses of charcoal over time.

Store in a cool and dry place. Protect from light.

This medicine is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with Parkinson's disease and end-of-dose motor fluctuations not stabilized on levodopa/dopa decarboxylase (DDC) inhibitor treatment.

Antiparkinson drugs

Levodopa is the metabolic precursor of dopamine. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted to dopamine in the brain. Carbidopa increases the amount of levodopa that is transported into the CNS by inhibiting the decarboxylation of peripheral levodopa. Entacapone is a selective inhibitor of COMT which alters the pharmacokinetics of levodopa, resulting to increased and more sustained levodopa serum levels.

Adults: The optimum daily dose must be determined by careful titration of levodopa in each patient. Patients should be instructed to take only 1 (one) tablet per dose administration. The maximum recommended daily dose of entacapone is 2,000 mg. Usually this combination is to be used in patients who are currently treated with corresponding doses of standard release Levodopa or Dopa Decarboxylase (DDC) inhibitor and entacapone.

May be taken with or without food. Keep a consistent diet. A change in diet to foods high in protein may delay levodopa absorption & reduce amount taken up in circulation. Excessive acidity also delays stomach emptying & thus delays levodopa absorption. Iron salts may also reduce amount of levodopa available to the body. Swallow whole.

Common side effects include dyskinesia, nausea, hyperkinesia, change in urine color, diarrhea and stomach pain. Other side effects may include diarrhea, sometimes severe; colitis; hallucinations; other mental disturbances; orthostatic hypotension; rhabdomyolysis; and symptoms resembling neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a condition characterized by high fever, muscle stiffness, and confusion); fibrosis; skin cancer, etc.

Narrow-angle glaucoma, phaeochromocytoma, history of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) and/ or non-traumatic rhabdomyolysis. Severe hepatic impairment. Concurrent use of or within 14 days of discontinuing non-selective MAOIs.

Levodopa, carbidopa and entacapone together may cause dizziness and symptomatic orthostatism. Therefore, caution should be exercised when driving or using machines. As with levodopa, periodic evaluations of hepatic, hematopoietic, cardiovascular and renal function are recommended during extended therapy.

Symptomatic postural hypotension may occur when levodopa is added to the treatment of patients already receiving antihypertensive. Dose adjustment of the antihypertensive agent may be required. Dopamine receptor antagonists (e.g. some antipsychotics and antiemetics), phenytoin and papaverine may reduce the therapeutic effect of levodopa. Patients taking these medicinal products with levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination should be carefully observed for loss of therapeutic response. Since levodopa competes with certain amino acids, the absorption of Levodopa, Carbidopa & Entacapone may be impaired in some patients on high protein diet.

Pregnancy category C. The combination of levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. The safety of this combination in the infant is not known. Women should not breast-feed during treatment with this combination.

Children: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

Elderly: No dose adjustment is required for elderly patients.

Hepatic impaired patients: Should be administered cautiously to patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. Dose reduction may be needed.

Renally impaired patients: Should be administered cautiously to patients in severe renal impairment including those receiving dialysis therapy

The acute symptoms and signs of overdose include agitation, confusional state, coma, bradycardia, ventricular tachycardia, Cheyne Stokes respiration, discolorations of skin, tongue and conjunctiva, and chromaturia. Management of acute overdose with levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination is similar to acute overdose with levodopa. Pyridoxine, however, is not effective in reversing the actions of levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination. Hospitalization is advised and general supportive measures should be employed with immediate gastric lavage and repeated doses of charcoal over time.

Store in a cool and dry place. Protect from light.

This medicine is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with Parkinson's disease and end-of-dose motor fluctuations not stabilized on levodopa/dopa decarboxylase (DDC) inhibitor treatment.

Antiparkinson drugs

Levodopa is the metabolic precursor of dopamine. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted to dopamine in the brain. Carbidopa increases the amount of levodopa that is transported into the CNS by inhibiting the decarboxylation of peripheral levodopa. Entacapone is a selective inhibitor of COMT which alters the pharmacokinetics of levodopa, resulting to increased and more sustained levodopa serum levels.

Adults: The optimum daily dose must be determined by careful titration of levodopa in each patient. Patients should be instructed to take only 1 (one) tablet per dose administration. The maximum recommended daily dose of entacapone is 2,000 mg. Usually this combination is to be used in patients who are currently treated with corresponding doses of standard release Levodopa or Dopa Decarboxylase (DDC) inhibitor and entacapone.

May be taken with or without food. Keep a consistent diet. A change in diet to foods high in protein may delay levodopa absorption & reduce amount taken up in circulation. Excessive acidity also delays stomach emptying & thus delays levodopa absorption. Iron salts may also reduce amount of levodopa available to the body. Swallow whole.

Common side effects include dyskinesia, nausea, hyperkinesia, change in urine color, diarrhea and stomach pain. Other side effects may include diarrhea, sometimes severe; colitis; hallucinations; other mental disturbances; orthostatic hypotension; rhabdomyolysis; and symptoms resembling neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a condition characterized by high fever, muscle stiffness, and confusion); fibrosis; skin cancer, etc.

Narrow-angle glaucoma, phaeochromocytoma, history of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) and/ or non-traumatic rhabdomyolysis. Severe hepatic impairment. Concurrent use of or within 14 days of discontinuing non-selective MAOIs.

Levodopa, carbidopa and entacapone together may cause dizziness and symptomatic orthostatism. Therefore, caution should be exercised when driving or using machines. As with levodopa, periodic evaluations of hepatic, hematopoietic, cardiovascular and renal function are recommended during extended therapy.

Symptomatic postural hypotension may occur when levodopa is added to the treatment of patients already receiving antihypertensive. Dose adjustment of the antihypertensive agent may be required. Dopamine receptor antagonists (e.g. some antipsychotics and antiemetics), phenytoin and papaverine may reduce the therapeutic effect of levodopa. Patients taking these medicinal products with levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination should be carefully observed for loss of therapeutic response. Since levodopa competes with certain amino acids, the absorption of Levodopa, Carbidopa & Entacapone may be impaired in some patients on high protein diet.

Pregnancy category C. The combination of levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. The safety of this combination in the infant is not known. Women should not breast-feed during treatment with this combination.

Children: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

Elderly: No dose adjustment is required for elderly patients.

Hepatic impaired patients: Should be administered cautiously to patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. Dose reduction may be needed.

Renally impaired patients: Should be administered cautiously to patients in severe renal impairment including those receiving dialysis therapy

The acute symptoms and signs of overdose include agitation, confusional state, coma, bradycardia, ventricular tachycardia, Cheyne Stokes respiration, discolorations of skin, tongue and conjunctiva, and chromaturia. Management of acute overdose with levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination is similar to acute overdose with levodopa. Pyridoxine, however, is not effective in reversing the actions of levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination. Hospitalization is advised and general supportive measures should be employed with immediate gastric lavage and repeated doses of charcoal over time.

Store in a cool and dry place. Protect from light.

This medicine is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with Parkinson's disease and end-of-dose motor fluctuations not stabilized on levodopa/dopa decarboxylase (DDC) inhibitor treatment.

Antiparkinson drugs

Levodopa is the metabolic precursor of dopamine. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted to dopamine in the brain. Carbidopa increases the amount of levodopa that is transported into the CNS by inhibiting the decarboxylation of peripheral levodopa. Entacapone is a selective inhibitor of COMT which alters the pharmacokinetics of levodopa, resulting to increased and more sustained levodopa serum levels.

Adults: The optimum daily dose must be determined by careful titration of levodopa in each patient. Patients should be instructed to take only 1 (one) tablet per dose administration. The maximum recommended daily dose of entacapone is 2,000 mg. Usually this combination is to be used in patients who are currently treated with corresponding doses of standard release Levodopa or Dopa Decarboxylase (DDC) inhibitor and entacapone.

May be taken with or without food. Keep a consistent diet. A change in diet to foods high in protein may delay levodopa absorption & reduce amount taken up in circulation. Excessive acidity also delays stomach emptying & thus delays levodopa absorption. Iron salts may also reduce amount of levodopa available to the body. Swallow whole.

Common side effects include dyskinesia, nausea, hyperkinesia, change in urine color, diarrhea and stomach pain. Other side effects may include diarrhea, sometimes severe; colitis; hallucinations; other mental disturbances; orthostatic hypotension; rhabdomyolysis; and symptoms resembling neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a condition characterized by high fever, muscle stiffness, and confusion); fibrosis; skin cancer, etc.

Narrow-angle glaucoma, phaeochromocytoma, history of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) and/ or non-traumatic rhabdomyolysis. Severe hepatic impairment. Concurrent use of or within 14 days of discontinuing non-selective MAOIs.

Levodopa, carbidopa and entacapone together may cause dizziness and symptomatic orthostatism. Therefore, caution should be exercised when driving or using machines. As with levodopa, periodic evaluations of hepatic, hematopoietic, cardiovascular and renal function are recommended during extended therapy.

Symptomatic postural hypotension may occur when levodopa is added to the treatment of patients already receiving antihypertensive. Dose adjustment of the antihypertensive agent may be required. Dopamine receptor antagonists (e.g. some antipsychotics and antiemetics), phenytoin and papaverine may reduce the therapeutic effect of levodopa. Patients taking these medicinal products with levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination should be carefully observed for loss of therapeutic response. Since levodopa competes with certain amino acids, the absorption of Levodopa, Carbidopa & Entacapone may be impaired in some patients on high protein diet.

Pregnancy category C. The combination of levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. The safety of this combination in the infant is not known. Women should not breast-feed during treatment with this combination.

Children: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

Elderly: No dose adjustment is required for elderly patients.

Hepatic impaired patients: Should be administered cautiously to patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. Dose reduction may be needed.

Renally impaired patients: Should be administered cautiously to patients in severe renal impairment including those receiving dialysis therapy

The acute symptoms and signs of overdose include agitation, confusional state, coma, bradycardia, ventricular tachycardia, Cheyne Stokes respiration, discolorations of skin, tongue and conjunctiva, and chromaturia. Management of acute overdose with levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination is similar to acute overdose with levodopa. Pyridoxine, however, is not effective in reversing the actions of levodopa/ carbidopa/ entacapone combination. Hospitalization is advised and general supportive measures should be employed with immediate gastric lavage and repeated doses of charcoal over time.

Store in a cool and dry place. Protect from light.

Tramadol is used for the treatment of moderate to severe painful conditions. These include:

• Postoperative pain
• Colic and spastic pain
• Cancer pain
• Joint pain
• Neck and back pain
• Pain associated with osteoporosis.

Opioid analgesics

Tramadol is a centrally acting synthetic analgesic compound. It inhibits the re uptake of neurotransmitters- serotonin and noradrenaline. Thus it modifies the transmission of pain impulses by activating both descending serotonergic pathways and noradrenergic pathways involved in analgesia. The analgesic effects of Tramadol are mediated via stimulation of mu-opioid receptors and indirect modulation of central monoaminergic inhibitory pathways.

Capsule or Tablet: Usual doses are 50 to 100 mg every four to six hours. For acute pain an initial dose of 100 mg is required. For chronic painful conditions an initial dose of 50 mg is recommended. Subsequent doses should be 50 to 100 mg administered 4-6 hourly. The dose level and frequency of dosing will depend on the severity of the pain.The total daily dosage by mouth should not exceed 400 mg.

Sustained Release Capsule or Tablet: One SR capsule or tablet every 12 hours, for example first one in the morning and then at the same time in the evening. The number of capsules taken at a time will depend upon severity of pain, but it should not be taken more frequently than every 12 hours.The total daily dosage by mouth should not exceed 400 mg.

Injection: A dose of 50-100 mg may be given every 4 to 6 hours by intramuscular or by intravenous infusion. For the treatment of postoperative pain,the initial dose is 100 mg followed by 50 mg every 10 to 20 minutes if necessary to a maximum of 250 mg in the first hour. Thereafter, doses are 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours up to a total daily dose of 600 mg.

Suppository: Tramadol suppository should be administered rectally. For adults usual dose is 100 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride 6 hourly. In general, 400 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride (4 Tramadol suppository) per day sufficient. However, for the treatment of Cancer pain and severe pain after operations much higher daily doses can be used.

Commonly occurring side-effects are dizziness/vertigo, nausea, constipation, headache, somnolence, vomiting, pruritus, CNS stimulation, asthenia, sweating, dyspepsia, dry mouth, diarrhoea. Less commonly occurring side-effects include malaise, allergic reaction, weight loss, vasodilatation, palpitations, abdominal pain, anorexia, flatulence, GI bleeding, hepatitis, stomatitis etc.

Tramadol is contraindicated in persons having hypersensitivity to this drug. It is also contraindicated in acute intoxication with alcohol, hypnotics, centrally acting analgesics, opioids or psychotropic drugs.

Respiratory depression: When large doses of tramadol are administered with anaesthetic with anaesthetic medications or alcohol, respiratory depression may result. Therefore, tramadol should be administered cautiously in patients at risk for respiratory depression.

Opioid dependence: Tramadol is not recommended for patients who are dependent on opioids.

Concomitant CNS depressants: Tramadol should be used with caution and in reduced dosages when administering to patients receiving CNS depressants such as alcohol, opioids, anesthetic agents, phenothiazines, tranquilizers or sedative hypnotics.

Concomitant MAO inhibitors: Tramadol should be used with great caution in patients taking MAO inhibitors, since tramadol inhibits the uptake of norepinephrine and serotonin.

Tramadol should be used with caution in patients with increased intracranial pressure or head injury and patients with acute abdominal conditions.

In general, physician need not be concerned about drugs interacting with Tramadol. The monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors represent the only drug class not recommended for combination with Tramadol. Concomitant administration of carbamazepine with Tramadol causes a significant increase in Tramadol metabolism and it requires to increase the dose of Tramadol.

Safe use of Tramadol in pregnancy has not been established. Tramadol has been shown to cross the placenta. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Therefore, Tramadol should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the foetus. Tramadol Hydrochloride should not be administered during breast feeding as Tramadol and its metabolites have been detected in breast milk.

In children from the age of 1 year Tramadol Hydrochloride can be given in a dose of 1-2 mg/kg body weight. However,suppository (100 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride) should not be administered in children and adolescents below the age of 14 years. Tramadol Hydrochloride 100 mg SR Capsules have not been studied in children. Therefore, safety and efficacy have not been established and the product should not be used in children.

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Tramadol is used for the treatment of moderate to severe painful conditions. These include:

• Postoperative pain
• Colic and spastic pain
• Cancer pain
• Joint pain
• Neck and back pain
• Pain associated with osteoporosis.

Opioid analgesics

Tramadol is a centrally acting synthetic analgesic compound. It inhibits the re uptake of neurotransmitters- serotonin and noradrenaline. Thus it modifies the transmission of pain impulses by activating both descending serotonergic pathways and noradrenergic pathways involved in analgesia. The analgesic effects of Tramadol are mediated via stimulation of mu-opioid receptors and indirect modulation of central monoaminergic inhibitory pathways.

Capsule or Tablet: Usual doses are 50 to 100 mg every four to six hours. For acute pain an initial dose of 100 mg is required. For chronic painful conditions an initial dose of 50 mg is recommended. Subsequent doses should be 50 to 100 mg administered 4-6 hourly. The dose level and frequency of dosing will depend on the severity of the pain.The total daily dosage by mouth should not exceed 400 mg.

Sustained Release Capsule or Tablet: One SR capsule or tablet every 12 hours, for example first one in the morning and then at the same time in the evening. The number of capsules taken at a time will depend upon severity of pain, but it should not be taken more frequently than every 12 hours.The total daily dosage by mouth should not exceed 400 mg.

Injection: A dose of 50-100 mg may be given every 4 to 6 hours by intramuscular or by intravenous infusion. For the treatment of postoperative pain,the initial dose is 100 mg followed by 50 mg every 10 to 20 minutes if necessary to a maximum of 250 mg in the first hour. Thereafter, doses are 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours up to a total daily dose of 600 mg.

Suppository: Tramadol suppository should be administered rectally. For adults usual dose is 100 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride 6 hourly. In general, 400 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride (4 Tramadol suppository) per day sufficient. However, for the treatment of Cancer pain and severe pain after operations much higher daily doses can be used.

Commonly occurring side-effects are dizziness/vertigo, nausea, constipation, headache, somnolence, vomiting, pruritus, CNS stimulation, asthenia, sweating, dyspepsia, dry mouth, diarrhoea. Less commonly occurring side-effects include malaise, allergic reaction, weight loss, vasodilatation, palpitations, abdominal pain, anorexia, flatulence, GI bleeding, hepatitis, stomatitis etc.

Tramadol is contraindicated in persons having hypersensitivity to this drug. It is also contraindicated in acute intoxication with alcohol, hypnotics, centrally acting analgesics, opioids or psychotropic drugs.

Respiratory depression: When large doses of tramadol are administered with anaesthetic with anaesthetic medications or alcohol, respiratory depression may result. Therefore, tramadol should be administered cautiously in patients at risk for respiratory depression.

Opioid dependence: Tramadol is not recommended for patients who are dependent on opioids.

Concomitant CNS depressants: Tramadol should be used with caution and in reduced dosages when administering to patients receiving CNS depressants such as alcohol, opioids, anesthetic agents, phenothiazines, tranquilizers or sedative hypnotics.

Concomitant MAO inhibitors: Tramadol should be used with great caution in patients taking MAO inhibitors, since tramadol inhibits the uptake of norepinephrine and serotonin.

Tramadol should be used with caution in patients with increased intracranial pressure or head injury and patients with acute abdominal conditions.

In general, physician need not be concerned about drugs interacting with Tramadol. The monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors represent the only drug class not recommended for combination with Tramadol. Concomitant administration of carbamazepine with Tramadol causes a significant increase in Tramadol metabolism and it requires to increase the dose of Tramadol.

Safe use of Tramadol in pregnancy has not been established. Tramadol has been shown to cross the placenta. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Therefore, Tramadol should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the foetus. Tramadol Hydrochloride should not be administered during breast feeding as Tramadol and its metabolites have been detected in breast milk.

In children from the age of 1 year Tramadol Hydrochloride can be given in a dose of 1-2 mg/kg body weight. However,suppository (100 mg Tramadol Hydrochloride) should not be administered in children and adolescents below the age of 14 years. Tramadol Hydrochloride 100 mg SR Capsules have not been studied in children. Therefore, safety and efficacy have not been established and the product should not be used in children.

Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

This tablet is indicated for-

• The management of moderate to moderately severe pain in adults.
• The short-term (five days or less) management of acute pain.

Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Paracetamol has analgesic and antipyretic properties with weak anti-inflammatory activity. Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) is thought to act primarily in the CNS, increasing the pain threshold by inhibiting both isoforms of cyclooxygenase, COX-1, COX-2, and COX-3 enzymes involved in prostaglandin (PG) synthesis. Paracetamol is a para aminophenol derivative, has analgesic and antipyretic properties with weak anti-inflammatory activity. Paracetamol is one of the most widely used, safest and fast acting analgesic. It is well tolerated and free from various side effects of aspirin.

Tramadol is a centrally acting synthetic opioid analgesic. Although its mode of action is not completely understood, from animal tests, at least two complementary mechanisms appear applicable: binding of parent and M₁ metabolite to μ-opioid receptors and weak inhibition of the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin. Opioid activity is due to both low affinity binding of the parent compound and higher affinity binding of the O-demethylated metabolite M₁ to μ-opioid receptors. Tramadol has been shown to inhibit reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin in vitro, as have some other opioid analgesics.These mechanisms may contribute independently to the overall analgesic profile of tramadol.

For the management of moderate to moderately severe pain: The recommended dose is 1 or 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain relief up to a maximum of 8 tablets per day.

In case of short-term (five days or less) management of acute pain: The recommended dose is 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain relief up to a maximum of 8 tablets per day.

This tablet can be administered without regard to food.

The following adverse reactions may happen to this therapy: asthenia, fatigue, hot flushes, dizziness, headache, tremor, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, anxiety, confusion, euphoria, insomnia, nervousness, somnolence pruritus, rash, increased sweating etc.

Tramadol & Paracetamol combination tablets should not be administered to patients who have previously demonstrated hypersensitivity to tramadol, paracetamol, any other component of this product, or opioids. This is contraindicated in any situation where opioids are contraindicated.

Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. This combination
preparation should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. This combination preparation is not recommended for obstetrical preoperative medication or for post-delivery analgesia in nursing mothers because its safety in infants and newborns has not been studied.

pediatric use: The safety and effectiveness of this combination preparation have not been studied in the pediatric population.

Geriatric use:  In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function; of concomitant disease and multiple drug therapy.

Use in Renal Disease: This combination preparation has not been studied in patients with impaired renal
function. In patients with creatinine clearances of less than 30 ml/min, it is recommended that the dosing interval of this combination preparation be increased but not to exceed 2 tablets every 12 hours.

Use in Hepatic Disease: This combination preparation has not been studied in patients with impaired hepatic function. The use of this combination preparation in patients with hepatic impairment is not recommended.

Store in a cool and dry place. Do not freeze. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Antiparkinson drugs

If 100/10 mg tablet is used: Dosage may be initiated with one tablet three or four times a day. Titration upward may be required in some patients to achieve optimum dosage of carbidopa. The dosage may be increased by one tablet every day or every other day until a total of eight tablets (two tablets q.d.s.) is reached.

For patients starting with 250/25 mg tablet: The initial dose is one half taken once or twice daily. However, this may not provide the optimal amount of Carbidopa needed by many patients. If necessary, add one-half every day or every other day until optimal response is reached. The suggested starting dosage for most patients taking more than 1500 mg of Levodopa a day is one tablet of 250/25 mg three or four times a day.

Maintenance dose: Therapy should be individualized and adjusted according to the desired therapeutic response. When more levodopa is requried, 250/25 mg tablet should be substituted at a dosage of one tablet three or four times a day. If necessary, the dosage of 250/25 mg tablet may be increased by half to one tablet every other day to a maximum of eight tablets a day. Experience with a total daily dosage greater than 200 mg Carbidopa is limited.

Adverse effects that occur frequently in patients receiving Carbidopa-Levodopa are those due to the central neuropharmacologic activity of dopamine. These reactions usually can be diminished by dosage reduction. The most common adverse effects are dyskinesias including choreiform, dystonic, and other involuntary movements and nausea.

• Body as a whole: syncope, chest pain, anorexia.
• Cardiovascular: palpitation, orthostatic effects including hypotensive episodes, hypertension, phlebitis.
• Gastrointestinal: vomiting, gastrointestinal bleeding, development of duodenal ulcer, diarrhoea, dark saliva.
• Haemotologic: leukopenia, haemolytic and non-haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis.
• Hypersensitivity: angioedema, urticaria, pruritus, Henoch-Schonlein purpura.
• Nervous System: dizziness, somnolence, paresthesia, delusions, hallucinations and paranoid ideation, depression with or without development of suicidal tendencies, dementia, dream abnormalities, agitation, confusion, increased libido.
• Respiratory: dyspnea.
• Skin: alopecia, rash, dark sweat.
• Urogenital: dark urine.

Carbidopa-Levodopa tablet is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to Carbidopa and Levodopa, and in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. Since Levodopa may activate a malignant melanoma, Carbidopa-Levodopa should not be used in patients with suspicious undiagnosed skin lesions or a history of melanoma.

Carbidopa-Levodopa is not recommended for the treatment of medicine-induced extrapyramidal reactions. Carbidopa Levodopa may be given to patients already taking Levodopa alone; however, the Levodopa must be discontinued at least 12 hours before Carbidopa-Levodopa started. Dyskinesias may occur in patients previously treated with Levodopa alone because Carbidopa permits more Levodopa to reach the brain and, thus, more dopamine to be formed. The occurrence of dyskinesias may require dosage reduction. All patients should be observed carefully for the development of depression with concomitant suicidal tendencies. Patients with past or current psychoses should be treated with caution. Carbidopa-Levodopa should be administered cautiously to patients with severe cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, renal, hepatic or endocrine disease, or a history of peptic ulcer disease or of convulsions.

Care should be exercised to patients with a history of myocardial infarction who have atriai, nodal, or ventricular arrhythmia. In such patients, cardiac function should be monitored with particular care during the period of initial dosage administration and titration. Patients with chronic wide-angle glaucoma may be treated cautiously with Carbidopa-Levodopa, provided the intraocular pressure is weli controlled and the patient monitored carefully for changes in intraocular pressure during therapy.

Symptomatic postural hypotension has occurred when Carbidopa-Levodopa is added to the treatment of a patient receiving antihypertensive medicines. Therefore, when therapy with CarbidopaLevodopa is started, dosage adjustment of the antihypertensive medicine may be required. There have been rare reports of adverse reactions, including hypertension and dyskinesia, resulting from the concomitant use of tricyclic antidepressants and Carbidopa-Levodopa. Studies demonstrate a decrease in the bioavailability of Carbidopa and/or Levodopa when it is ingested with ferrous sulphate or ferrous gluconate. Dopamine-2 receptor antagonists (e.g., phenothiazines, butyrophenones and risperidone) and isoniazid may reduce the therapeutic effects of Levodopa. In addition, the beneficial effects of Levodopa in Parkinson's disease have been reported to be reversed by phenytoin and papaverine. Patients taking these medicines with Carbidopa-Levodopa should be carefully observed for loss of therapeutic response. Concomitant therapy with selegiline and Carbidopa-Levodopa may be associated with severe orthostatic hypotension not attributable to Carbidopa-Levodopa alone.

Although the effects of CarbidopaLevodopa on human pregnancy are unknown both Levodopa and combinations of Carbidopa and Levodopa have caused visceral and skeletal malformations in rabbits. Therefore, use of CarbidopaLevodopa in women of childbearing potential requires that the anticipated benefits of the medicine be weighed against possible hazards should pregnancy occur. It is not known whether Carbidopa is excreted in human milk. Because many medicines are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the use of Carbidopa-Levodopa, taking into account the importance of the medicine to the mother.

Use in children: Safety and effectiveness of Carbidopa-Levodopa in infants and children have not been established, and its use in patients below the age of 18 years is not recommended.

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.

Antiparkinson drugs

If 100/10 mg tablet is used: Dosage may be initiated with one tablet three or four times a day. Titration upward may be required in some patients to achieve optimum dosage of carbidopa. The dosage may be increased by one tablet every day or every other day until a total of eight tablets (two tablets q.d.s.) is reached.

For patients starting with 250/25 mg tablet: The initial dose is one half taken once or twice daily. However, this may not provide the optimal amount of Carbidopa needed by many patients. If necessary, add one-half every day or every other day until optimal response is reached. The suggested starting dosage for most patients taking more than 1500 mg of Levodopa a day is one tablet of 250/25 mg three or four times a day.

Maintenance dose: Therapy should be individualized and adjusted according to the desired therapeutic response. When more levodopa is requried, 250/25 mg tablet should be substituted at a dosage of one tablet three or four times a day. If necessary, the dosage of 250/25 mg tablet may be increased by half to one tablet every other day to a maximum of eight tablets a day. Experience with a total daily dosage greater than 200 mg Carbidopa is limited.

Adverse effects that occur frequently in patients receiving Carbidopa-Levodopa are those due to the central neuropharmacologic activity of dopamine. These reactions usually can be diminished by dosage reduction. The most common adverse effects are dyskinesias including choreiform, dystonic, and other involuntary movements and nausea.

• Body as a whole: syncope, chest pain, anorexia.
• Cardiovascular: palpitation, orthostatic effects including hypotensive episodes, hypertension, phlebitis.
• Gastrointestinal: vomiting, gastrointestinal bleeding, development of duodenal ulcer, diarrhoea, dark saliva.
• Haemotologic: leukopenia, haemolytic and non-haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis.
• Hypersensitivity: angioedema, urticaria, pruritus, Henoch-Schonlein purpura.
• Nervous System: dizziness, somnolence, paresthesia, delusions, hallucinations and paranoid ideation, depression with or without development of suicidal tendencies, dementia, dream abnormalities, agitation, confusion, increased libido.
• Respiratory: dyspnea.
• Skin: alopecia, rash, dark sweat.
• Urogenital: dark urine.

Carbidopa-Levodopa tablet is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to Carbidopa and Levodopa, and in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. Since Levodopa may activate a malignant melanoma, Carbidopa-Levodopa should not be used in patients with suspicious undiagnosed skin lesions or a history of melanoma.

Carbidopa-Levodopa is not recommended for the treatment of medicine-induced extrapyramidal reactions. Carbidopa Levodopa may be given to patients already taking Levodopa alone; however, the Levodopa must be discontinued at least 12 hours before Carbidopa-Levodopa started. Dyskinesias may occur in patients previously treated with Levodopa alone because Carbidopa permits more Levodopa to reach the brain and, thus, more dopamine to be formed. The occurrence of dyskinesias may require dosage reduction. All patients should be observed carefully for the development of depression with concomitant suicidal tendencies. Patients with past or current psychoses should be treated with caution. Carbidopa-Levodopa should be administered cautiously to patients with severe cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, renal, hepatic or endocrine disease, or a history of peptic ulcer disease or of convulsions.

Care should be exercised to patients with a history of myocardial infarction who have atriai, nodal, or ventricular arrhythmia. In such patients, cardiac function should be monitored with particular care during the period of initial dosage administration and titration. Patients with chronic wide-angle glaucoma may be treated cautiously with Carbidopa-Levodopa, provided the intraocular pressure is weli controlled and the patient monitored carefully for changes in intraocular pressure during therapy.

Symptomatic postural hypotension has occurred when Carbidopa-Levodopa is added to the treatment of a patient receiving antihypertensive medicines. Therefore, when therapy with CarbidopaLevodopa is started, dosage adjustment of the antihypertensive medicine may be required. There have been rare reports of adverse reactions, including hypertension and dyskinesia, resulting from the concomitant use of tricyclic antidepressants and Carbidopa-Levodopa. Studies demonstrate a decrease in the bioavailability of Carbidopa and/or Levodopa when it is ingested with ferrous sulphate or ferrous gluconate. Dopamine-2 receptor antagonists (e.g., phenothiazines, butyrophenones and risperidone) and isoniazid may reduce the therapeutic effects of Levodopa. In addition, the beneficial effects of Levodopa in Parkinson's disease have been reported to be reversed by phenytoin and papaverine. Patients taking these medicines with Carbidopa-Levodopa should be carefully observed for loss of therapeutic response. Concomitant therapy with selegiline and Carbidopa-Levodopa may be associated with severe orthostatic hypotension not attributable to Carbidopa-Levodopa alone.

Although the effects of CarbidopaLevodopa on human pregnancy are unknown both Levodopa and combinations of Carbidopa and Levodopa have caused visceral and skeletal malformations in rabbits. Therefore, use of CarbidopaLevodopa in women of childbearing potential requires that the anticipated benefits of the medicine be weighed against possible hazards should pregnancy occur. It is not known whether Carbidopa is excreted in human milk. Because many medicines are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the use of Carbidopa-Levodopa, taking into account the importance of the medicine to the mother.

Use in children: Safety and effectiveness of Carbidopa-Levodopa in infants and children have not been established, and its use in patients below the age of 18 years is not recommended.

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.

Idiopathic Parkinson's disease, in particular to reduce off-period in patients who previously have been treated with levodopa/decarboxylase inhibitors, or with levodopa alone and who have experienced motor fluctuations.

Antiparkinson drugs

Patients currently treated with conventional levodopa/decarboxylase inhibitor combinations: Dosage with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet should be substituted initially at an amount that provides no more than approximately 10% more levodopa per day when higher dosages are given (more than 900 mg per day). The dosing interval between doses should be prolonged by 30 to 50% at intervals ranging from 4 to 12 hours. It is recommended to give the smaller dose, if divided doses are not equal, at the end of the day. The dose needs to be titrated further depending on clinical response, as indicated below under 'Titration'. Dosages that provide up to 30% more levodopa per day may be necessary. A guide for substitution of Levodopa Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet treatment for conventional levodopa/decarboxylase inhibitor combinations is shown in the table below:

Guideline for conversion from conventional Levodopa/Carbidopa tablet to Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet:

Conventional tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 300-400 mg

• Controlled Release tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 400 mg. Dosage Regimen: 1 tablet 2x daily.

Conventional tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 500-600 mg

• Controlled Release tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 600 mg. Dosage Regimen: 1 tablet 3x daily.

Conventional tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 700-800 mg

• Controlled Release tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 800 mg. Dosage Regimen: 4 tablets in 3 or 4 divided doses.

Conventional tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 900-1000 mg

• Controlled Release tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 1000 mg. Dosage Regimen: 5 tablets in 3 or more divided doses.

Conventional tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 1100-1200 mg

• Controlled Release tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 1200 mg. Dosage Regimen: 6 tablets in 3 or more divided doses.

Conventional tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 1300-1400 mg

• Controlled Release tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 1400 mg. Dosage Regimen: 7 tablets in 3 or more divided doses.

Conventional tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 1500-1600 mg

• Controlled Release tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 1600 mg. Dosage Regimen: 8 tablets in 3 or more divided doses.

Patients currently treated with levodopa alone: Levodopa must be discontinued at least eight hours before therapy with this CR tablet is started. In patients with mild to moderate disease, the initial recommended dose is one tablet of this CR tablet twice daily.

Patients not receiving levodopa: In patients with mild to moderate disease, the initial recommended dose is one tablet of this CR tablet twice daily. Initial dosages should not exceed 600 mg per day of levodopa, nor be given at intervals of less than six hours.

Titration: Following initiation of therapy, doses and dosing intervals may be increased or decreased, depending upon therapeutic response. Most patients have been adequately treated with two to eight tablets per day of this CR tablet administered as divided doses at intervals ranging from four to twelve hours during the waking day. Higher doses (up to 12 tablets) and shorter intervals (less than four hours) have been used, but are not usually recommended. When doses of this CR tablet are given at intervals of less than four hours, or if the divided doses are not equal, it is recommended that the smaller doses be given at the end of the day. In some patients the onset of effect of the first morning dose may be delayed for up to one hour compared with the response usually obtained from the first morning dose of conventional levodopa-carbidopa tablet. An interval of at least three days between dosage adjustments is recommended.

Maintenance: Because Parkinson’s disease is progressive, periodic clinical evaluations are recommended and adjustment of the dosage regimen of this CR tablet may be required.

Addition of other antiparkinson medication: Anticholinergic agents, dopamine agonists and amantadine can be given with this CR tablet. Dosage adjustment of this CR tablet may be necessary when these agents are added to an existing treatment regimen for this CR tablet.

Interruption of therapy: Patients should be observed carefully if abrupt reduction or discontinuation of this CR tablet is required, especially if the patient is receiving antipsychotics.

The side-effect reported most frequently was dyskinesia (a form of abnormal involuntary movements). A greater incidence of dyskinesias was seen with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet than with Levodopa-Carbidopa tablet. Other side-effects: nausea, hallucinations, confusion, dizziness, chorea, dry mouth, dream abnormalities, dystonia, insomnia, depression, asthenia, vomiting, anorexia, chest pain, palpitation, constipation, diarrhoea, dyspepsia, gastro-intestinal pain, dark saliva, angioedema, urticaria, pruritus, weight loss, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, agitation, anxiety, decreased mental acuity, paraesthesia, disorientation, fatigue, headache, extrapyramidal and movement disorders, falling, gait abnormalities, muscle cramps, on-off phenomenon, increased libido, psychotic episodes, dyspnoea, flushing, alopecia, rash, dark sweat, blurred vision, dark urine, cardiac irregularities, hypertension, phlebitis, bitter taste, sialorrhoea, dysphagia, bruxism, hiccups, gastro-intestinal bleeding, flatulence, burning sensation of tongue, development of duodenal ulcer, leucopenia, haemolytic and non-haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis.

Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet should not be given when administration of a sympathomimetic amine is contraindicated. Non-selective monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors are contraindicated for use with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged release tablet. These inhibitors must be discontinued at least two weeks prior to initiating therapy with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged release tablet. Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged release tablet may be administered concomitantly with the manufacturer's recommended dose of an MAO inhibitor with selectivity for MAO type B (e.g. selegiline hydrochloride). Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged release tablet is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of this medication, and in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. Because levodopa may activate a malignant melanoma, Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged release tablet should not be used in patients with suspicious undiagnosed skin lesions or a history of melanoma.

When patients are receiving levodopa monotherapy, levodopa must be discontinued at least eight hours before therapy with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet is started (at least 12 hours if slow-release levodopa has been administered). Dyskinesias may occur in patients previously treated with levodopa alone because carbidopa permits more levodopa to reach the brain and, thus, more dopamine to be formed. The occurrence of dyskinesias may require dosage reduction. Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet is not recommended for the treatment of drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions or for the treatment of Huntingdon’s chorea. Based on the pharmacokinetic profile of Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet the onset of effect in patients with early morning dyskinesias may be slower than with conventional Levodopa-Carbidopa tablet. The incidence of dyskinesias is slightly higher during treatment with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet than with conventional Levodopa-Carbidopa tablet (16.5% vs 12.2%) in advanced patients with motor fluctuations. Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet should be administered cautiously to patients with severe cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, renal, hepatic or endocrine disease, or with a history of peptic ulcer disease or of convulsions. Care should be exercised in administering Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet to patients with a history of recent myocardial infarction who have residual atrial, nodal, or ventricular arrhythmia. In such patients, cardiac function should be monitored with particular care during the period of initial dosage administration and titration. Levodopa has been associated with somnolence and episodes of sudden sleep onset. Sudden onset of sleep during daily activities, in some cases without awareness or warning signs, has been reported very rarely. Patients must be informed of this and advised to exercise caution while driving or operating machines during treatment with levodopa. Patients who have experienced somnolence and/or an episode of sudden sleep onset must refrain from driving or operating machines. Furthermore a reduction of dosage or termination of therapy may be considered. 

As with levodopa, Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet may cause involuntary movements and mental disturbances. Patients with a history of severe involuntary movements or psychotic episodes when treated with levodopa alone or levodopa/decarboxylase inhibitor combination should be observed carefully when Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet is substituted. These reactions are thought to be due to increased brain dopamine following administration of levodopa and use of Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet may cause recurrence. Dosage reduction may be required. All patients should be observed carefully for the development of depression with concomitant suicidal tendencies. Patients with past or current psychoses should be treated with caution. Impulse control disorders: Patients should be regularly monitored for the development of impulse control disorders. Patients and carers should be made aware that behavioural symptoms of impulse control disorders including pathological gambling, increased libido, hypersexuality, compulsive spending or buying, binge eating and compulsive eating can occur in patients treated with dopamine agonists and/or other dopaminergic treatments containing levodopa including Levodopa-Carbidopa tablet. Review of treatment is recommended if such symptoms develop.

Caution should be exercised when the following drugs are administered concomitantly with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet.

Antihypertensive agents: Symptomatic postural hypotension has occurred when levodopa/decarboxylase inhibitor combinations were added to the treatment of patients receiving some antihypertensive drugs. Therefore when therapy with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet is started, dosage adjustment of the antihypertensive drug may be required.

Antidepressants: There have been rare reports of adverse reactions, including hypertension and dyskinesia, resulting from the concomitant use of tricyclic antidepressants and carbidopa-levodopa preparations.

Anticholinergics: Anticholinergics may affect the absorption and thus the patient’s response.

Iron: Studies demonstrate a decrease in the bioavailability of carbidopa and/or levodopa when it is ingested with ferrous sulphate or ferrous gluconate.

Other drugs: Dopamine D2 receptor antagonists (e.g. phenothiazines, butyrophenones and risperidone) and isoniazid may reduce the therapeutic effects of levodopa. The beneficial effects of levodopa in Parkinson’s disease have been reported to be reversed by phenytoin and papaverine. Patients taking these drugs with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet should be observed carefully for loss of therapeutic response. Concomitant therapy with selegiline and carbidopa-levodopa may be associated with severe orthostatic hypotension not attributable to carbidopa-levodopa alone. Since levodopa competes with certain amino acids, the absorption of levodopa may be impaired in some patients on a high protein diet. The effect of simultaneous administration of antacids with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet on the bioavailability of levodopa has not been studied.

There are insufficient data to evaluate the possible harmfulness of this substance when used in human pregnancy. It is not known whether carbidopa is excreted in human milk. In a study of one nursing mother with Parkinson's disease, excretion of levodopa in breast milk was reported. Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet should not be given during pregnancy and to nursing mothers.

Use in Children: Safety and effectiveness of Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet in infants and children have not been established, and its use in patients below the age of 18 is not recommended.

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.

Idiopathic Parkinson's disease, in particular to reduce off-period in patients who previously have been treated with levodopa/decarboxylase inhibitors, or with levodopa alone and who have experienced motor fluctuations.

Antiparkinson drugs

Patients currently treated with conventional levodopa/decarboxylase inhibitor combinations: Dosage with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet should be substituted initially at an amount that provides no more than approximately 10% more levodopa per day when higher dosages are given (more than 900 mg per day). The dosing interval between doses should be prolonged by 30 to 50% at intervals ranging from 4 to 12 hours. It is recommended to give the smaller dose, if divided doses are not equal, at the end of the day. The dose needs to be titrated further depending on clinical response, as indicated below under 'Titration'. Dosages that provide up to 30% more levodopa per day may be necessary. A guide for substitution of Levodopa Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet treatment for conventional levodopa/decarboxylase inhibitor combinations is shown in the table below:

Guideline for conversion from conventional Levodopa/Carbidopa tablet to Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet:

Conventional tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 300-400 mg

• Controlled Release tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 400 mg. Dosage Regimen: 1 tablet 2x daily.

Conventional tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 500-600 mg

• Controlled Release tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 600 mg. Dosage Regimen: 1 tablet 3x daily.

Conventional tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 700-800 mg

• Controlled Release tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 800 mg. Dosage Regimen: 4 tablets in 3 or 4 divided doses.

Conventional tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 900-1000 mg

• Controlled Release tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 1000 mg. Dosage Regimen: 5 tablets in 3 or more divided doses.

Conventional tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 1100-1200 mg

• Controlled Release tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 1200 mg. Dosage Regimen: 6 tablets in 3 or more divided doses.

Conventional tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 1300-1400 mg

• Controlled Release tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 1400 mg. Dosage Regimen: 7 tablets in 3 or more divided doses.

Conventional tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 1500-1600 mg

• Controlled Release tablet: Daily Dosage of Levodopa 1600 mg. Dosage Regimen: 8 tablets in 3 or more divided doses.

Patients currently treated with levodopa alone: Levodopa must be discontinued at least eight hours before therapy with this CR tablet is started. In patients with mild to moderate disease, the initial recommended dose is one tablet of this CR tablet twice daily.

Patients not receiving levodopa: In patients with mild to moderate disease, the initial recommended dose is one tablet of this CR tablet twice daily. Initial dosages should not exceed 600 mg per day of levodopa, nor be given at intervals of less than six hours.

Titration: Following initiation of therapy, doses and dosing intervals may be increased or decreased, depending upon therapeutic response. Most patients have been adequately treated with two to eight tablets per day of this CR tablet administered as divided doses at intervals ranging from four to twelve hours during the waking day. Higher doses (up to 12 tablets) and shorter intervals (less than four hours) have been used, but are not usually recommended. When doses of this CR tablet are given at intervals of less than four hours, or if the divided doses are not equal, it is recommended that the smaller doses be given at the end of the day. In some patients the onset of effect of the first morning dose may be delayed for up to one hour compared with the response usually obtained from the first morning dose of conventional levodopa-carbidopa tablet. An interval of at least three days between dosage adjustments is recommended.

Maintenance: Because Parkinson’s disease is progressive, periodic clinical evaluations are recommended and adjustment of the dosage regimen of this CR tablet may be required.

Addition of other antiparkinson medication: Anticholinergic agents, dopamine agonists and amantadine can be given with this CR tablet. Dosage adjustment of this CR tablet may be necessary when these agents are added to an existing treatment regimen for this CR tablet.

Interruption of therapy: Patients should be observed carefully if abrupt reduction or discontinuation of this CR tablet is required, especially if the patient is receiving antipsychotics.

The side-effect reported most frequently was dyskinesia (a form of abnormal involuntary movements). A greater incidence of dyskinesias was seen with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet than with Levodopa-Carbidopa tablet. Other side-effects: nausea, hallucinations, confusion, dizziness, chorea, dry mouth, dream abnormalities, dystonia, insomnia, depression, asthenia, vomiting, anorexia, chest pain, palpitation, constipation, diarrhoea, dyspepsia, gastro-intestinal pain, dark saliva, angioedema, urticaria, pruritus, weight loss, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, agitation, anxiety, decreased mental acuity, paraesthesia, disorientation, fatigue, headache, extrapyramidal and movement disorders, falling, gait abnormalities, muscle cramps, on-off phenomenon, increased libido, psychotic episodes, dyspnoea, flushing, alopecia, rash, dark sweat, blurred vision, dark urine, cardiac irregularities, hypertension, phlebitis, bitter taste, sialorrhoea, dysphagia, bruxism, hiccups, gastro-intestinal bleeding, flatulence, burning sensation of tongue, development of duodenal ulcer, leucopenia, haemolytic and non-haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis.

Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet should not be given when administration of a sympathomimetic amine is contraindicated. Non-selective monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors are contraindicated for use with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged release tablet. These inhibitors must be discontinued at least two weeks prior to initiating therapy with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged release tablet. Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged release tablet may be administered concomitantly with the manufacturer's recommended dose of an MAO inhibitor with selectivity for MAO type B (e.g. selegiline hydrochloride). Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged release tablet is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of this medication, and in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. Because levodopa may activate a malignant melanoma, Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged release tablet should not be used in patients with suspicious undiagnosed skin lesions or a history of melanoma.

When patients are receiving levodopa monotherapy, levodopa must be discontinued at least eight hours before therapy with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet is started (at least 12 hours if slow-release levodopa has been administered). Dyskinesias may occur in patients previously treated with levodopa alone because carbidopa permits more levodopa to reach the brain and, thus, more dopamine to be formed. The occurrence of dyskinesias may require dosage reduction. Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet is not recommended for the treatment of drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions or for the treatment of Huntingdon’s chorea. Based on the pharmacokinetic profile of Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet the onset of effect in patients with early morning dyskinesias may be slower than with conventional Levodopa-Carbidopa tablet. The incidence of dyskinesias is slightly higher during treatment with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet than with conventional Levodopa-Carbidopa tablet (16.5% vs 12.2%) in advanced patients with motor fluctuations. Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet should be administered cautiously to patients with severe cardiovascular or pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, renal, hepatic or endocrine disease, or with a history of peptic ulcer disease or of convulsions. Care should be exercised in administering Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet to patients with a history of recent myocardial infarction who have residual atrial, nodal, or ventricular arrhythmia. In such patients, cardiac function should be monitored with particular care during the period of initial dosage administration and titration. Levodopa has been associated with somnolence and episodes of sudden sleep onset. Sudden onset of sleep during daily activities, in some cases without awareness or warning signs, has been reported very rarely. Patients must be informed of this and advised to exercise caution while driving or operating machines during treatment with levodopa. Patients who have experienced somnolence and/or an episode of sudden sleep onset must refrain from driving or operating machines. Furthermore a reduction of dosage or termination of therapy may be considered. 

As with levodopa, Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet may cause involuntary movements and mental disturbances. Patients with a history of severe involuntary movements or psychotic episodes when treated with levodopa alone or levodopa/decarboxylase inhibitor combination should be observed carefully when Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet is substituted. These reactions are thought to be due to increased brain dopamine following administration of levodopa and use of Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet may cause recurrence. Dosage reduction may be required. All patients should be observed carefully for the development of depression with concomitant suicidal tendencies. Patients with past or current psychoses should be treated with caution. Impulse control disorders: Patients should be regularly monitored for the development of impulse control disorders. Patients and carers should be made aware that behavioural symptoms of impulse control disorders including pathological gambling, increased libido, hypersexuality, compulsive spending or buying, binge eating and compulsive eating can occur in patients treated with dopamine agonists and/or other dopaminergic treatments containing levodopa including Levodopa-Carbidopa tablet. Review of treatment is recommended if such symptoms develop.

Caution should be exercised when the following drugs are administered concomitantly with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet.

Antihypertensive agents: Symptomatic postural hypotension has occurred when levodopa/decarboxylase inhibitor combinations were added to the treatment of patients receiving some antihypertensive drugs. Therefore when therapy with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet is started, dosage adjustment of the antihypertensive drug may be required.

Antidepressants: There have been rare reports of adverse reactions, including hypertension and dyskinesia, resulting from the concomitant use of tricyclic antidepressants and carbidopa-levodopa preparations.

Anticholinergics: Anticholinergics may affect the absorption and thus the patient’s response.

Iron: Studies demonstrate a decrease in the bioavailability of carbidopa and/or levodopa when it is ingested with ferrous sulphate or ferrous gluconate.

Other drugs: Dopamine D2 receptor antagonists (e.g. phenothiazines, butyrophenones and risperidone) and isoniazid may reduce the therapeutic effects of levodopa. The beneficial effects of levodopa in Parkinson’s disease have been reported to be reversed by phenytoin and papaverine. Patients taking these drugs with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet should be observed carefully for loss of therapeutic response. Concomitant therapy with selegiline and carbidopa-levodopa may be associated with severe orthostatic hypotension not attributable to carbidopa-levodopa alone. Since levodopa competes with certain amino acids, the absorption of levodopa may be impaired in some patients on a high protein diet. The effect of simultaneous administration of antacids with Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet on the bioavailability of levodopa has not been studied.

There are insufficient data to evaluate the possible harmfulness of this substance when used in human pregnancy. It is not known whether carbidopa is excreted in human milk. In a study of one nursing mother with Parkinson's disease, excretion of levodopa in breast milk was reported. Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet should not be given during pregnancy and to nursing mothers.

Use in Children: Safety and effectiveness of Levodopa-Carbidopa prolonged-release tablet in infants and children have not been established, and its use in patients below the age of 18 is not recommended.

Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light.