carbidopa + levodopa (Schwarz Pharma)

Parcopa is an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) formulation of the combination drug carbidopa and levodopa, specifically indicated for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. It utilizes RapiTab technology, allowing the tablet to dissolve on the tongue without water, which is particularly beneficial for patients experiencing dysphagia or those who require a more convenient administration method during 'off' periods. Levodopa serves as a metabolic precursor to dopamine, crossing the blood-brain barrier to replenish depleted striatal dopamine levels, while carbidopa acts as a peripheral DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor. By preventing the peripheral metabolism of levodopa, carbidopa increases the amount of levodopa available to the central nervous system and reduces side effects such as nausea and vomiting. Parcopa was originally developed by Schwarz Pharma and later managed by UCB following its acquisition of Schwarz.

Brand names

Parcopa

Other names

carbidopa/levodopa ODTcarbidopa-levodopa orally disintegrating tablets