Levodopa inhalation is used along with the combination of levodopa and carbidopa (Duopa, Rytary, Sinemet) to treat ''off'' episodes (times of difficulty moving, walking, and speaking that may happen when other medication(s) wear off) in people with Parkinson's disease (PD; a disorder of the nervous system that causes difficulties with movement, muscle control, and balance). Levodopa inhalation will not work to prevent ''off'' episodes but will help to control symptoms when an ''off'' episode has already begun. Levodopa is in a class of medications called dopamine agonists. Levodopa works by mimicking the action of dopamine, a natural substance in the brain that is lacking in patients with PD.
Levodopa inhalation comes as a capsule to use with a specially designed oral inhaler. You will use the inhaler to breathe in the dry powder contained in the capsules. It is usually inhaled when needed. You will need to orally inhale the contents of two capsules for a full dose. Donotinhale more than one dose (2 capsules) per "off" period. Donotinhale more than 5 doses in one day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use levodopa inhalation exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Do not swallow levodopa capsules for inhalation.
Do not open the blister package surrounding a capsule or remove the capsule until just before you are ready to use it. If you accidentally open the package of a capsule that you cannot use immediately, discard that capsule. Do not store the capsules inside the inhaler. Dispose of the inhaler when all of the capsules in the carton have been used. Use the new inhaler that comes with your prescription refill each time.
Only use the inhaler it comes with to inhale the powder in the capsules. Never try to inhale them using any other inhaler. Never use your levodopa inhaler to inhale any other medication.
Before you use levodopa inhalation for the first time, read the written instructions that come with the inhaler. Look at the diagrams carefully and be sure that you recognize all the parts of the inhaler. Ask your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare professionals to show you how to use it. Practice using the inhaler while they watch you.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer's information for the patient.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Before using levodopa inhalation,
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Levodopa inhalation may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms or those in the SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS section, call your doctor immediately or get emergency medical treatment:
Levodopa inhalation may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while using this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online ( Web Site) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).
It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resistant and young children can open them easily. To protect young children from poisoning, always lock safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe location – one that is up and away and out of their sight and reach. Web Site
Unneeded medications should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that pets, children, and other people cannot consume them. However, you should not flush this medication down the toilet. Instead, the best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program. Talk to your pharmacist or contact your local garbage/recycling department to learn about take-back programs in your community. See the FDA's Safe Disposal of Medicines website ( Web Site) for more information if you do not have access to a take-back program.
In case of overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online at Web Site. If the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be awakened, immediately call emergency services at 911.
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your body's response to levodopa inhalation.
Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are using levodopa inhalation.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.