carbidopa + levodopa (Merck & Co.)

Lecipak is a generic fixed-dose combination of levodopa and carbidopa, developed and marketed by Abian Pharmed in Iran for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and Parkinson-like symptoms (such as tremors, stiffness, and difficulty moving). Levodopa is a metabolic precursor of dopamine that crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted into dopamine in the central nervous system, thereby replenishing depleted striatal dopamine levels. Carbidopa is a peripheral inhibitor of aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (DOPA decarboxylase) that does not cross the blood-brain barrier. By preventing the peripheral conversion of levodopa to dopamine, carbidopa increases the bioavailability of levodopa in the brain and reduces peripheral side effects such as nausea and vomiting. Lecipak is available in oral tablet formulations, including 100/25 mg and 250/25 mg strengths.

Brand names

AtametCrexontDhivyDuodopaDuopaKinsonLecipakParcopaRytarySinemetSinemet CR

Other names

carbidopa and levodopacarbidopa-levodopacarbidopa/levodopalevodopa + carbidopalevodopa and carbidopalevodopa-carbidopalevodopa/carbidopa