Madopar

Madopar is a brand-name fixed-dose combination medicine used to treat Parkinson's disease. It contains levodopa, the precursor to dopamine, and benserazide, a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor that increases the amount of levodopa reaching the brain by reducing its conversion to dopamine outside the brain.

Levodopa enters the brain where it is converted to dopamine, helping to restore dopaminergic signaling. Benserazide reduces peripheral metabolism of levodopa, allowing lower doses and reducing nausea and cardiovascular side effects.

Madopar is available as dispersible tablets and capsules, typically in fixed ratios of levodopa to benserazide (approximately 4:1 by weight). Dosing is individualized and usually given several times daily; tablets can be taken with or without food depending on tolerability and response.

Absorption can be influenced by dietary protein, which may reduce the amount of levodopa that reaches the brain. Caution is advised when coadministering with non-selective monoamine oxidase inhibitors; some antipsychotics can lessen effectiveness. Iron supplements and certain vitamins may affect absorption.

Common adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and orthostatic hypotension. Long-term use may cause dyskinesias and fluctuations in effect; psychiatric symptoms such as confusion or hallucinations can occur, especially in older patients. As with other dopaminergic therapies, treatment requires regular monitoring and dose adjustments.

Madopar should be used only under medical supervision. Contraindications include known hypersensitivity to levodopa, benserazide, or any component of the formulation, and concomitant use with non-selective MAO inhibitors. Availability and specific strengths vary by country.