L-dopa is a medication used to treat Parkinson's disease and dopamine-responsive dystonia. It works by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain.
L-dopa was first discovered in 1910 by George Barger and James Ewens at the Wellcome Laboratories in London.
Initial studies on L-dopa were not successful due to its inability to cross the blood-brain barrier.
It was not until the 1960s when scientists discovered that L-dopa could be combined with a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor (carbidopa) to increase its effectiveness in treating Parkinson's disease.
In 1970, L-dopa was approved by the FDA for the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
Bromocriptine is a dopamine agonist medication used to treat Parkinson's disease.
Pramipexole is a dopamine agonist medication used to treat Parkinson's disease and restless legs syndrome.
Ropinirole is a dopamine agonist medication used to treat Parkinson's disease and restless legs syndrome.
Sinemet is a combination medication containing both L-dopa and carbidopa. It is used to treat Parkinson's disease.
Madopar is a combination medication containing both L-dopa and benserazide. It is used to treat Parkinson's disease.
L-dopa is primarily used to treat Parkinson's disease and dopamine-responsive dystonia.
Common side effects of L-dopa include nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, and confusion. Long-term use may also lead to dyskinesia.
L-dopa is converted into dopamine in the brain. This helps to increase levels of dopamine, which become depleted in Parkinson's disease.
L-dopa should not be taken by individuals with narrow-angle glaucoma or a history of melanoma. It should also be used with caution in individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease.
The effects of L-dopa can be felt within 30-60 minutes of taking the medication. However, it may take several weeks of treatment to achieve maximum benefit.
