How is Levodopa Inhalation Route dosed?
For the treatment of OFF episodes in patients with Parkinson's disease, the recommended dosage is:
- Adults: Two 42-milligram (mg) capsules (84 mg) taken as needed, for up to 5 times a day. The doctor may adjust the dose as needed, but typically not more than 84 mg per OFF episode (not more than 1 dose or 2 capsules per OFF episode) or 420 mg per day (not more than 5 doses per day).
- Children: The use and dosage should be determined by a doctor.
It is crucial to follow the instructions provided by your doctor and to take the medicine exactly as directed. Always ask your doctor if you have any questions.
What is the dosage form of Levodopa Inhalation Route?
Levodopa inhalation is available in the following dosage form:
- Capsule
What medications are contraindication with Levodopa Inhalation Route?
Levodopa inhalation should not be used with central nervous system depressants, including antihistamines, sedatives, tranquilizers, prescription pain medicines, muscle relaxants, or anesthetics. Consult your doctor before taking any CNS depressants while using this medicine. Levodopa inhalation may cause unusual changes in behavior, such as gambling urges, binge eating, compulsive shopping, or sexual urges. Talk to your doctor immediately if you notice any of these unusual urges while using this medicine.
How is Levodopa Inhalation Route administered?
Levodopa inhalation route is administered using an inhaler device, which is designed to deliver the medication directly to the lungs. Follow these steps to use the inhaler:
- Remove the blue cap of the inhaler.
- Twist off the white mouthpiece.
- Load 1 capsule into the capsule chamber of the inhaler. Do not load 2 capsules at the same time.
- Attach the mouthpiece until you hear a click.
- Breathe out fully and try to get as much air out of your lungs as possible.
- Put the mouthpiece just in front of your mouth and breathe in (inhale) deeply.
- If you did not hear or feel the capsule "whirl" (spin) while inhaling, you may need to take a deeper, longer breath.
- If you cough or stop your dose, repeat the step using the same capsule.
- Hold your breath for about 5 to 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly.
Use the inhaler and capsules with clean and dry hands. Do not swallow or open the capsule. Avoid using any capsule that looks crushed, damaged, or wet.
What are common precautions when taking Levodopa Inhalation Route?
Common precautions when taking levodopa inhalation route include informing your doctor of any medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking, using the medicine exactly as directed, and not stopping or starting any other medicines for Parkinson's disease without consulting your doctor. This medicine should be used with caution in individuals with dyskinesia, lung disease, or mental illness. Follow the patient information leaflet and patient instructions carefully and do not swallow or open the capsules, which are for inhalation only.