Levodopa FAQ
What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s
disease is a neurological disorder that affects muscle control and
is characterized by tremors, lack of coordination, and difficulty walking.
How is Parkinson’s disease treated?
There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, so treatment is aimed
at controlling symptoms. Parkinson’s disease symptoms are usually
treated with drugs that increase the amount of dopamine available to the
brain.
What is levodopa?
Levodopa is a prescription
Parkinson’s disease drug that increases the amount of dopamine in
the body.
What is Sinemet?
Sinemet is a prescription Parkinson’s disease drug that is a combination
of levodopa and carbidopa. This combination reduces the harmful side effects
caused by long-term levodopa use.
What if levodopa and Sinemet do not improve my symptoms?
If you have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and treatment
with levodopa and Sinemet is not working, you may be suffering from some
other disease, such as manganese poisoning.
What is manganese poisoning?
Manganese
poisoning is a disease caused by over-exposure to manganese. People
who work in industries such as steel, railroad, mining, and welding are
at the most risk.
How do I get a free manganese poisoning screening?
If you believe that you have been misdiagnosed with Parkinson’s
disease, you may be eligible for a free manganese
poisoning screening. Click here to learn more.
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