ANSWERS: 1
  • L-dopa (levadopa) is the main drug used to treat Parkinson's disease; the Mayo Clinic reports that the brain uses levodopa to make dopamine, the chemical lost in Parkinson's.

    Mild Side Effects

    The most common mild side effects of L-dopa are abdominal pain, dry mouth, reduced appetite and gas. Less common mild effects include constipation, diarrhea, headache, hiccups, twitching, sleeplessness and darkening of sweat, urine and saliva, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Expert Insight

    Medical attention is only necessary for mild side effects if long lasting or bothersome to the patient, the Mayo Clinic says.

    Common Serious Effects

    The most common serious side effects of L-dopa include, according to the Mayo Clinic, hallucinations and confusion, exaggerated sense of well being, agitation and anxiety. Physical effects such as grinding or clenching the teeth, clumsiness, dizziness, increased saliva production, nausea, uncontrolled body movements, fatigue and weakness have also been reported.

    Other Serious Effects

    Less common, yet serious side effects of L-dopa include vision problems and eyelid spasms, dizziness, fast or irregular heartbeat, hot flashes and changes in mood. Gastrointestinal effects reported include weight changes, bloody stools, and having bloody vomit or vomit that resembles coffee grounds. Rash, back, leg and stomach pain, seizures, skin turning pale, and prolonged and painful erection may also occur, says the Mayo Clinic.

    Considerations

    If any of the more serious side effects of L-dopa occur, contact a doctor as soon as possible.

    Source:

    Mayo Clinic: Parkinson's Disease Treatments and Drugs

    Mayo Clinic: Levodopa Side Effects

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