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Real members of MyParkinsonsTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

What works best for you; "Normal" L-Dopa or "Controlled release" L-Dopa?

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭
Stoke-on-Trent, UK

Normally controlled, delayed or timed release will say so on the packaging, if it just says "L-dopa", it's probably "normal release".

March 18
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Answer Summary

Members shared personal experiences with both regular and controlled-release Carbidopa/Levodopa formulations for Parkinson's, with many... Read more

Members shared personal experiences with both regular and controlled-release Carbidopa/Levodopa formulations for Parkinson's, with many finding that extended or controlled release worked significantly better for managing their symptoms. Several members described combining quick-acting and extended-release doses at different times of day to keep symptoms under better control, while others noted that 'normal release' provided only brief relief by comparison. A recurring theme was the importance of self-advocacy, with members encouraging each other to stand firm with their medical teams and take what actually works rather than switching due to cost pressures.

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Nigel - they are probably pushing you to take the normal c/l because it's cheaper. Take what works best for you, if at all possible.

March 18
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member if you're ok Googling I've seen at least one scientific paper that came down heavily in favour of extended release. If I can find it again I'll post a link here.

March 19
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member I take extended at 8am and 8pm with quick reacting at 1pm and 5pm and it takes most of the symptoms down a few notches for a few hours

March 18
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

I want to try controlled release, I'm not as good lately on regular c/l either .... thanks for the whole conversation everyone, I got excellent points now for my Neurologist next week!!!

March 18
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member now that wouldn't surprise me at all.

The same way when they tell me (every time) to give any change to my medication regime "three months to settle in".

Yeah sure. What they really mean is "bugger off for at least 12 weeks because we are too busy".

Every Parkinson's medication (I accept antidepressants are a separate issue) I've ever taken I've been able to assess in two weeks, whether it's positive, negative or no change...

March 18

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