Levodopa counselling Flashcards

1
Q

Check for contraindications

A

Glaucoma

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2
Q

How the treatment works

A
  • Levodopa is a replacement for some of the dopamine which your brain is no longer able to produce
  • This will help to reduce your symptoms, particularly your rigidity and slow movements
  • Given with carbidopa (inhibits peripheral levodopa degeneration)
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3
Q

Treatment course and how it’s taken

A
  • 3-4 times daily tablet with food (reduces nausea)
  • Taken as long as it works effectively - after 5 years most suffer ‘on/off, ‘wearing off’ phenomena (switch between mobility and immobility that occurs before the next dose is due after prolonged levodopa use) and dyskinesias
  • Fast-acting
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4
Q

Monitoring required

A

None

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5
Q

Side effects

A
  • Psychosis
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dyskinesias
  • Postural hypotension
  • On-off/ wearing off phenomena
  • Impulsive behaviour
  • Dizziness
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