Larodopa
Larodopa
Larodopa (pronounced: la-ro-dopa), also known as Levodopa or L-Dopa, is a medication used to treat Parkinson's disease and Dopamine-responsive dystonia. It is a naturally occurring dietary supplement and psychoactive drug found in certain kinds of food and herbs.
Etymology
The term "Larodopa" is derived from its chemical name, L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine. The "L" refers to the levorotatory stereoisomer, and "dopa" is an acronym for dihydroxyphenylalanine.
Usage
Larodopa is used to increase dopamine concentrations in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and Dopa-responsive dystonia. It is often used in combination with carbidopa (under the brand name Sinemet) to prevent the conversion of Larodopa to dopamine in the bloodstream, allowing more Larodopa to reach the brain.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Larodopa include hypotension, dyskinesia, and hallucinations. More serious side effects may include psychosis, a type of high blood pressure known as pulmonary hypertension, and a potentially severe withdrawal syndrome known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
Related Terms
- Parkinson's disease
- Dopamine-responsive dystonia
- Dopamine
- Carbidopa
- Sinemet
- Hypotension
- Dyskinesia
- Hallucinations
- Psychosis
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Larodopa
- Wikipedia's article - Larodopa
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