carbidopa

Carbidopa is a small molecule drug classified as a dopa decarboxylase inhibitor. It is primarily used in combination with levodopa for the symptomatic treatment of idiopathic Parkinson's disease and other parkinsonian syndromes, including those caused by encephalitis or exposure to toxins such as carbon monoxide or manganese[1][3][4]. Carbidopa works by inhibiting the enzyme aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (also known as DOPA decarboxylase) in peripheral tissues, thereby preventing the premature conversion of levodopa to dopamine outside the brain. This increases the amount of levodopa that reaches the central nervous system, allowing for lower doses and reducing side effects like nausea and vomiting[1][4][5]. Carbidopa itself does not cross the blood-brain barrier and has no therapeutic effect when used alone; it must be co-administered with levodopa[3][5]. The drug may also be used in combination with 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) to prevent its peripheral metabolism[5].

Brand names

Lodosyn

Other names

N-amino-alpha-methyl-3-hydroxy-L-tyrosine monohydrateN-amino-alpha-methyl3-hydroxy-L-tyrosine monohydrateN-amino-alpha-methyl 3-hydroxy-L-tyrosine monohydrate