Levodopa is a precursor of dopamine, and is given as replacement therapy in Parkinson's disease. Carbidopa is a peripheral dopa decarboxylase inhibitor. It prevents metabolism of levodopa to dopamine in the peripheral circulation, ensuring that a higher proportion of the dose reaches the brain, where dopamine acts. A lower dose of levodopa can be used, reducing the incidence and severity of side-effects.
This medicinal substance has been classified in the anatomical therapeutic chemical (ATC) classification according to its main therapeutic use as follows:
| ATC Group | Classification | |
|---|---|---|
| N04BA02 | Levodopa and decarboxylase inhibitor | N Nervous system → N04 Anti-parkinson drugs → N04B Dopaminergic agents → N04BA Dopa and dopa derivatives |
Competent medicine agencies globally have authorized commercialization of this active ingredient according to these medication package inserts (MPIs):
| Document | Type | Information Source | |
|---|---|---|---|
| CREDANIL Tablet | MPI, EU: SmPC | Υπουργείο Υγείας (CY) | |
| PRODUODOPA Solution for infusion | MPI, EU: SmPC | Health Products Regulatory Authority (IE) | |
| DUODOPA Intestinal gel | MPI, EU: SmPC | Health Products Regulatory Authority (IE) |
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