Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Carbidopa-Levodopa as follows:
- Carbidopa-Levodopa carries the risk of inducing/aggravating abnormal body movements or dyskinesias, such as, uncontrolled tongue movements, lip smacking, unusual eye movements, blurred vision, muscle weakness, unsteadiness, motor incoordination, and compromised balance, thus increasing the fall risk. Confusion, and dizziness with Carbidopa-Levodopa use, can add to the fall risk, thus enhancing it further. Slow change of position, seeking caregiver assistance during ambulation, and observing compliance with DME prescribed can help to reduce fall risk and prevent any accidents from happening. Report any exacerbation of the above mentioned findings and new fall incidents to your physician and other health care personnel, for any change in plan of care to be considered.
- Carbidopa-Levodopa is partially metabolized in the brain and nervous tissues and the unmetabolized portion of the drug along with the metabolites is mainly excreted in the urine. Individuals with renal disease cannot excrete the drug and metabolites normally, which allows them to stay in blood circulation for longer time, resulting in toxicity and consequent side-effects. So, Carbidopa-Levodopa must be used with caution in individuals with compromised renal function, with possible multiple dose adjustments, periodical monitoring for renal functions, and close watch for development of any dangerous side-effects and toxicity symptoms.
- Notify your doctor of any unresolved and worsening akinesia, rigidity, and tremor. Also, notify your doctor regarding exacerbation of depressive symptoms, if any, or any other continuing unpleasant side-effects, so that, your dosage on the medication could be revised.
