Madopar is a combination antiparkinsonian drug. It contains levodopa (dopamine precursor) and benserazide (peripheral dopa decarboxylase inhibitor). The drug is available in the form of capsules, modified-release capsules and tablets. It is available by prescription.

Indications for use

Madopar is used for:

• Parkinson's disease and parkinsonism syndrome (except in cases caused by antipsychotic drugs).
• Restless legs syndrome, including idiopathic restless legs syndrome and in patients with chronic renal failure who are undergoing dialysis.

Contraindications

Contraindications to the use of Madopar:

• Hypersensitivity to levodopa, benzerazide, or other components of the drug.
• Decompensated disorders of endocrine organs, liver, or kidneys (except for patients with restless leg syndrome on dialysis).
• Cardiovascular diseases in the stage of decompensation.
• Mental illnesses with psychotic manifestations.
• Angle-closure glaucoma.
• Age under 25 years.
• Pregnancy and lactation.

Important: It is not recommended to combine Madopar with non-selective monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO) or MAO-A and MAO-B inhibitors.

Method of administration and dosage

The dosage of the drug is prescribed by a doctor. Here are some recommendations for taking the drug:

• Capsules (such as "125" or "125" GSS) should be swallowed whole, without chewing. Capsules "125" GSS should not be opened, otherwise the effect of modified release of the active substance is lost.
• Tablets (e.g. "250") can be crushed for easier swallowing.
• Dispersible tablets (e.g. "125") are dissolved in 1/4 cup of water (25-50 ml) and taken no later than 30 minutes after dissolution.

Features of administration:

• The drug is taken at least 30 minutes before meals or 1 hour after.
• In case of drowsiness or sudden episodes of drowsiness, driving or working with machinery should be avoided.

Side effects

Possible side effects of Madopara:

• From the digestive system: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss or change of taste sensations, dry mouth.
• From the cardiovascular system: arrhythmias, orthostatic hypotension (resolves with a decrease in dose), arterial hypertension.
• Respiratory system disorders: rhinitis, bronchitis.
• Dermatological reactions: rarely — itching and rash.
• Other: febrile infection.