Sinemet CR (Carbidopa/Levodopa)

Do’s

• The dosage of Sinemet CR is determined by your medical condition and individual response to treatment. If you are switching from immediate-release levodopa/carbidopa to Sinemet CR, your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage to achieve the same therapeutic effect.
• Sinemet CR is taken orally and should be swallowed whole or as directed by your healthcare provider. It is usually taken with or without food, but taking it with food can help reduce nausea.
• Sinemet CR is typically taken 2 to 3 times a day, with doses spaced 4 to 8 hours apart while awake. Take the medication at the same times each day to maintain consistent levels in the body.
• In some cases, your healthcare provider may also prescribe immediate-release carbidopa/levodopa or carbidopa alone to be taken alongside Sinemet CR. Understand your dosing schedule and follow it closely.
• Some patients may experience a "wearing-off" effect, where symptoms worsen before the next dose is due. An "on-off" effect, characterized by sudden short periods of stiffness, may also occur. If you experience these effects, contact your healthcare provider for possible dose adjustments.

Don’ts

• Do not crush or chew the medication, as it may release the entire dose at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
• Do not stop taking Sinemet CR without consulting your healthcare provider. Suddenly stopping the medication may worsen certain conditions or lead to withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, depression, confusion, fever, and muscle stiffness. Your healthcare provider may gradually reduce the dose to prevent withdrawal symptoms if discontinuation is necessary.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Changes in taste

These side effects are usually mild and may improve over time. If these side effects persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects: 

• Hallucinations
• Confusion
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Difficulty urinating
• Irregular heartbeat
• Allergic reactions

These serious side effects are rare, however, if you experience any of them, seek immediate medical attention.

Discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and guidance based on your specific situation.

Sinemet CR may cause increased sleepiness or drowsiness. If you experience these effects, avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.

Some individuals taking Sinemet CR may experience intense urges, such as increased sexual urges or urges to gamble. If you notice any unusual urges, inform your healthcare provider.

Sinemet CR may interact with other medications, including those that can cause drowsiness. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.

If it becomes necessary to abruptly reduce or discontinue Sinemet CR, especially if you are receiving neuroleptics, close observation is required. General anesthesia can be continued as long as the patient is permitted to take oral medication.

During the dose adjustment period, patients should be closely monitored for the appearance or worsening of involuntary movements, dyskinesias, or nausea.

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors should be discontinued at least two weeks before initiating therapy with Sinemet CR. However, Sinemet CR may be administered concomitantly with the manufacturer's recommended dose of an MAO inhibitor with selectivity for MAO type B, such as selegiline HCl.

Discuss any specific concerns or questions about warnings and precautions with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual circumstances.