Carbidopa is a peripheral dopa-decarboxylase inhibitor used mainly in the management of Parkinson’s disease. It is not effective when used alone and is always combined with levodopa. Carbidopa prevents the peripheral conversion of levodopa to dopamine. This action increases the amount of levodopa that reaches the brain. It also reduces peripheral side effects such as nausea and vomiting. Carbidopa does not cross the blood–brain barrier in significant amounts. The combination allows lower doses of levodopa to be used. This improves treatment efficacy and patient tolerance. Carbidopa plays a crucial role in long-term Parkinson’s therapy. It has become a standard component of antiparkinsonian treatment regimens.
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