Indications
Benserazide is always used together with Levodopa in one tablet or capsule to treat Parkinson’s disease. It helps control symptoms such as slowness of movement, stiffness and shaking (tremor). The combination may also be used for restless legs syndrome in some patients. Benserazide is not used on its own.
How It Works
Parkinson’s disease happens when the brain runs short of a chemical messenger called dopamine. Levodopa is turned into dopamine in the brain and replaces what is missing. Without help, most Levodopa is broken down in the body before it reaches the brain, causing nausea and other side effects. Benserazide blocks the enzyme that does this outside the brain (a decarboxylase inhibitor), so more Levodopa reaches the brain, a lower dose works and side effects such as sickness are reduced.
Dosage and Administration
The dose is set for each person by a specialist and is increased slowly, so take it exactly as prescribed. It is usually taken several times a day. Dispersible tablets can be stirred into a little water and drunk straight away. Try to take doses at the same times every day; a high protein meal can reduce how well it works, so your doctor may advise taking it before meals. Never stop it suddenly, as this can cause a serious reaction.
Interactions
- Non selective MAO inhibitors (some older antidepressants) must not be used with it, as blood pressure can rise dangerously.
- Antipsychotic medicines such as Haloperidol, and Metoclopramide, can reduce its effect.
- Iron supplements and high protein meals can reduce the absorption of Levodopa.
- Blood pressure medicines may cause a larger fall in blood pressure.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Levodopa or Benserazide.
- Narrow angle glaucoma.
- Severe heart, liver, kidney, hormone or blood disorders, unless a specialist decides otherwise.
- Certain serious psychiatric illnesses with psychosis.
- People under 25 years of age, as bones must be fully developed.
- Pregnancy, and women who could become pregnant without reliable contraception.
Side Effects
Common side effects include nausea, loss of appetite, dizziness on standing, uncontrolled twisting or jerking movements (dyskinesia), sleepiness, confusion, vivid dreams and dark coloured urine or sweat (which is harmless). Some people develop strong urges such as gambling, overeating or excessive shopping; tell your doctor if this happens. Sudden sleep attacks during the day can occur.
Get urgent medical help if you have high fever with stiff muscles and confusion, hallucinations or severe agitation, black or bloody stools, chest pain or an irregular heartbeat, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Pregnancy and Lactation
This combination should not be used during pregnancy because it may harm the developing baby. Women who could become pregnant should use reliable contraception. It should not be used while breastfeeding, as Levodopa can reduce milk production and may pass to the baby.
Precautions and Warnings
- Do not drive or use machines if you feel sleepy or have sudden sleep episodes.
- Your doctor may check blood counts, liver, kidney and heart function during long term use.
- Eye pressure should be checked if you have open angle glaucoma.
- Take extra care if you have a history of stomach ulcers, heart rhythm problems or mental health problems.
Overdose
Overdose may cause severe abnormal movements, fast or irregular heartbeat, confusion, restlessness, sleeplessness and vomiting. Seek emergency medical help straight away. Treatment is supportive in hospital with heart monitoring.
Therapeutic Class
Anti Parkinson medicine; peripheral dopa decarboxylase inhibitor (used with Levodopa).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.