Levodopa

Parkinson's medicine
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Levodopa is a parkinson's medicine found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Syndopa 110. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Replaces dopamine to improve movement in Parkinson's disease.

How it works

The main medicine for Parkinson's disease; the brain turns it into dopamine. Always combined with carbidopa or benserazide.

How to take it

Take at regular times as prescribed; protein-heavy meals can reduce absorption, so take 30 minutes before meals if possible. Do not stop suddenly.

Common side effects

  • Nausea
  • Dizziness on standing
  • Involuntary movements
  • Sleepiness

Get medical help straight away if

  • Sudden sleepiness during the day
  • Hallucinations or confusion
  • Strong urges (gambling, shopping, sex)
  • Fainting

Be careful

Can cause nausea and dizziness; take as scheduled.

Other medicines and interactions

Iron and high-protein meals reduce absorption. Antipsychotics and metoclopramide block it. Never with non-selective MAOIs.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Ask your neurologist; not recommended while breastfeeding (it reduces milk).

Combination medicines that contain Levodopa (1)

Syndopa 110

Common questions

What is Levodopa used for?

Replaces dopamine to improve movement in Parkinson's disease.

How does Levodopa work?

The main medicine for Parkinson's disease; the brain turns it into dopamine. Always combined with carbidopa or benserazide.

How should I take Levodopa?

Take at regular times as prescribed; protein-heavy meals can reduce absorption, so take 30 minutes before meals if possible. Do not stop suddenly.

What are the side effects of Levodopa?

Common: Nausea, dizziness on standing, involuntary movements, sleepiness. Get help straight away for: Sudden sleepiness during the day, hallucinations or confusion, strong urges (gambling, shopping, sex), fainting.

Does Levodopa interact with other medicines?

Iron and high-protein meals reduce absorption. Antipsychotics and metoclopramide block it. Never with non-selective MAOIs.

Is Levodopa safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ask your neurologist; not recommended while breastfeeding (it reduces milk).

Does Levodopa need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Levodopa?

Syndopa 110.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

🔎 Search another medicine

For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.