Lodosyn (Carbidopa) - Description

When LODOSYN* (Carbidopa) is to be given to carbidopa-naive patients who are being treated with levodopa, the two drugs should be given at the same time, starting with no more than 20 to 25% of the previous daily dosage of levodopa when given without LODOSYN (Carbidopa). At least twelve hours should elapse between the last dose of levodopa and initiation of therapy with LODOSYN (Carbidopa) and levodopa. See the WARNINGS and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION sections before initiating therapy.

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*Registered trademark of MERCK & CO., Inc.
COPYRIGHT © MERCK & CO., Inc., 1996
All rights reserved

DESCRIPTION

Carbidopa, an inhibitor of aromatic amino acid decarboxylation, is a white, crystalline compound, slightly soluble in water, with a molecular weight of 244.3. It is designated chemically as (–)-L-α-hydrazino-α-methyl-β-(3,4-dihydroxybenzene) propanoic acid monohydrate. Its empirical formula is C₁₀H₁₄N₂O₄•H₂O, and its structural formula is:

LODOSYN (Carbidopa) tablets contain 25 mg of carbidopa. Inactive ingredients are cellulose, FD&C Yellow 6, magnesium stearate and starch.

Tablet content is expressed in terms of anhydrous carbidopa which has a molecular weight of 226.3.