Carbidopa-Levodopa Flashcards
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Questions and Answers

What is the drug classification of Carbidopa-Levodopa?

  • Antidepressant
  • Antiparkinson, dopamine replacement (correct)
  • Anticonvulsant
  • Antibiotic
  • 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?

    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?

    <p>Take at regular intervals; take with meals; don't drive until you know how you respond; change positions slowly; watch for skin changes; may cause darkening of sweat, saliva and urine; inform about adverse effects.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be monitored in patients taking Carbidopa-Levodopa?

    <p>May cause increased glucose levels; monitor hepatic and renal function.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are some adverse effects of Carbidopa-Levodopa?

    <p>Involuntary movement, palpitations, orthostatic hypotension, urinary retention, priapism, psychosis, severe depression with suicidal ideation, hallucinations. Life-threatening effects include agranulocytosis, hemolytic anemia, cardiac dysrhythmias, neuroleptic malignant syndrome.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are some drug-drug interactions with Carbidopa-Levodopa?

    <p>MAOIs can increase hypertension; anticholinergics and antipsychotics can decrease levodopa.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the therapeutic effect of Carbidopa-Levodopa?

    <p>To treat tremor and rigidity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are contraindications for Carbidopa-Levodopa?

    <p>Hypersensitivity, angle-closure glaucoma, MAO inhibitors, malignant melanoma, undiagnosed skin lesions, products that contain tartrazine, phenylalanine or aspartame.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the typical dosage for Carbidopa-Levodopa?

    <p>25 mg carbidopa/100 mg levodopa 3 times daily.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    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.

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