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Questions and Answers
What is the drug classification of Carbidopa-Levodopa?
What is the drug classification of Carbidopa-Levodopa?
What is the mechanism of action of Carbidopa-Levodopa?
What is the mechanism of action of Carbidopa-Levodopa?
Transmission of levodopa to brain cells for conversion to dopamine; Carbidopa blocks the conversion of levodopa to dopamine in the intestine and peripheral tissues.
What are some nursing considerations for Carbidopa-Levodopa?
What are some nursing considerations for Carbidopa-Levodopa?
Usually takes 2-3 weeks of therapy; may take up to 6 months; effectiveness may change after several years.
What are key patient teachings regarding Carbidopa-Levodopa?
What are key patient teachings regarding Carbidopa-Levodopa?
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What should be monitored in patients taking Carbidopa-Levodopa?
What should be monitored in patients taking Carbidopa-Levodopa?
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What are some adverse effects of Carbidopa-Levodopa?
What are some adverse effects of Carbidopa-Levodopa?
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What are some drug-drug interactions with Carbidopa-Levodopa?
What are some drug-drug interactions with Carbidopa-Levodopa?
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What is the therapeutic effect of Carbidopa-Levodopa?
What is the therapeutic effect of Carbidopa-Levodopa?
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What are contraindications for Carbidopa-Levodopa?
What are contraindications for Carbidopa-Levodopa?
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What is the typical dosage for Carbidopa-Levodopa?
What is the typical dosage for Carbidopa-Levodopa?
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Study Notes
Drug Classification
- Antiparkinson medication primarily used for dopamine replacement.
Mechanism of Action
- Levodopa is transmitted to brain cells for conversion to dopamine.
- Carbidopa inhibits the conversion of levodopa to dopamine outside the brain, enhancing its effectiveness and reducing peripheral side effects.
Nursing Considerations
- Therapeutic effects may take 2 to 3 weeks, with a maximum of 6 months for full response.
- Effectiveness may diminish after several years of use.
Patient Teachings
- Administer at regular intervals and preferably with meals to enhance absorption.
- Avoid driving until response to the drug is known.
- Change body positions slowly to prevent dizziness.
- Monitor for skin changes such as lesions.
- Be aware of possible darkening of sweat, saliva, and urine.
- Educate about potential adverse effects and the importance of reporting them.
Patient Monitoring
- Regular checks for potential increases in glucose levels.
- Monitor hepatic (liver) and renal (kidney) function to ensure safety.
Adverse Effects
- Common effects include involuntary movements, palpitations, and orthostatic hypotension.
- Serious concerns: urinary retention, priapism, psychosis, severe depression, hallucinations.
- Life-threatening risks: agranulocytosis, hemolytic anemia, cardiac dysrhythmias, neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
Drug-Drug Interactions
- MAO inhibitors may lead to increased hypertension when combined.
- Anticholinergics and antipsychotics can diminish the effectiveness of levodopa.
Therapeutic Effect
- Primarily used to alleviate symptoms associated with tremor and rigidity in Parkinson's disease.
Contraindications
- Not recommended for individuals with hypersensitivity, angle-closure glaucoma, or those taking MAO inhibitors.
- Caution advised for patients with malignant melanoma, undiagnosed skin lesions, or sensitivities to tartrazine, phenylalanine, or aspartame.
Dosage
- Typical oral dosage includes 25 mg of carbidopa combined with 100 mg of levodopa, taken three times daily.
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Description
Dive into the essential aspects of Carbidopa-Levodopa (Sinemet) with this set of flashcards. Covering drug classification, mechanism of action, and nursing considerations, these cards serve as a quick reference for understanding this vital Parkinson's treatment. Perfect for nursing students and professionals alike.