Indications
Prolopa Dispersible is a prescription medication used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. It is a combination of levodopa and benserazide, which work together to increase dopamine levels in the brain and improve movement and coordination.
Levodopa works by being converted into dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is important for the regulation of movement in the brain. Benserazide is added to prevent the breakdown of levodopa in the bloodstream before it reaches the brain. This allows for more levodopa to reach the brain, where it can be converted into dopamine and improve motor symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease.
Use and Dosage
Prolopa Dispersible comes in the form of orally disintegrating tablets, which should be taken by mouth as directed by your healthcare professional. The tablet should be placed on your tongue and allowed to dissolve. It should not be swallowed whole, as it is specifically designed to dissolve in your mouth. Take Prolopa with or without food, at the same time each day, to maintain a consistent level of medication in your system.
Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage based on several factors, such as your medical condition, age, and other medications you may be taking. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and do not exceed the prescribed dosage of Prolopa. If you have any questions or concerns regarding how to use the medication, please speak with your healthcare provider.
Take Prolopa exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Prolopa Dispersible (Levodopa/Benserazide):
- Dark sweat or urine
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when rising from lying or sitting position
- Increase in sexual ability or desire
- Increased sweating
- Nausea
- Nightmares
- Stained saliva or mouth, teeth, and gums
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Prolopa Dispersible (Levodopa/Benserazide):
- Abdominal cramps
- Absence of or decrease in body movement
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Changes in sleep
- Changes in weight
- Clenching, gnashing, or grinding teeth
- Compulsive behavior (gambling, spending)
- Confusion
- Decreased interest in activities, thoughts of suicide
- Delusions
- Difficulty breathing
- Fainting
- False or unusual sense of well-being
- Fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
- Fearfulness
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there)
- Impaired ability to think
- Inability to move the eyes
- Increased blinking or twitching of eyelids
- Increased hand tremor
- Increased spasms
- Mood or mental changes
- Muscle twitching
- Nervousness
- Poor concentration
- Postural instability
- Restlessness
- Shakiness and unsteady walk, clumsiness, trembling, or problems with muscle control or coordination
- Sudden freezing
- Sudden onset of sleep
- Suspiciousness
- Swelling of the face and throat
- Taking more medication than ordered
- Tightness of the mouth, lips, or tongue
- Twisting of the neck to one side (torticollis)
- Twitching, twisting, uncontrolled repetitive movements of tongue, lips, face, arms, or legs
- Unwanted movements or difficulty moving
- Vomiting
Forms and Strength
Prolopa Dispersible (Levodopa/Benserazide) is available in the following forms and strength:
Prolopa Dispersible: Orally Disintegrating Tablet
- 100/25 mg
Cautions
- Caution is advised when taking Prolopa Dispersible with certain other medications, as drug interactions may occur.
- Prolopa Dispersible may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or sleepiness, so caution should be exercised when driving or operating machinery.
- Prolopa Dispersible may interact with certain disease conditions, such as glaucoma and cardiovascular disease, so caution is advised in patients with these conditions.
- Prolopa Dispersible may cause a variety of side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and sleep disturbances.
- Patients taking Prolopa Dispersible should be monitored for potential psychiatric symptoms, such as depression or hallucinations.
- Prolopa Dispersible may cause orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up, so caution is advised in patients with this condition.
- Prolopa Dispersible may cause a decrease in the effectiveness of some hormonal contraceptives, so alternative methods of contraception should be considered.
- Prolopa Dispersible may cause a decrease in appetite or weight loss in some patients, which should be monitored.
- Prolopa Dispersible should not be taken by patients with a history of melanoma or who have suspicious skin lesions.
- Patients with a history of peptic ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding should use Prolopa Dispersible with caution and be monitored for potential exacerbation of these conditions.
- Prolopa Dispersible can interact with certain foods, particularly those high in protein, so patients should follow their healthcare provider's instructions regarding diet while taking the tablet.
- Patients with a history of severe psychosis or psychotic disorders should use Prolopa Dispersible with caution, as it may exacerbate these conditions.
- Prolopa Dispersible may increase the risk of developing impulse control disorders, such as gambling or compulsive eating, in some patients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for Prolopa Dispersible to work?
The onset of action of Prolopa Dispersible can vary by individual, but it typically takes 30-60 minutes to become effective.
Are there any food interactions with Prolopa Dispersible?
Yes, Prolopa Dispersible may interact with certain foods, particularly those high in protein. Patients should follow their healthcare provider's instructions regarding diet while taking the tablet.
When is the best time to take PROLOPA?
This dose should be divided so that the medication is taken at least 4 times a day with, or immediately after, meals. If you have been taking another form of levodopa, your doctor will determine your starting dose, based on the amount of levodopa you have been taking most recently.
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