How should I take Sinemet (carbidopa and levodopa)?
If you are already taking levodopa (Larodopa, Dopar), you must stop taking it at least 12 hours before you start taking carbidopa and levodopa. Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Carbidopa and levodopa can be taken with or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals to keep a steady amount of the drug in your body at all times. If you are switched from regular tablets to extended-release tablets, you may notice it takes a little longer for your medicine to start working. Talk with your doctor if this concerns you. Do not crush, chew, or break an extended-release tablet. Swallow the pill whole. Breaking or opening the pill may cause too much of the drug to be released at one time. The regular tablet can be broken or crushed if needed to make it easier to swallow. To take the orally disintegrating tablet (Parcopa): • Keep the tablet in its blis
