The most commonly used medication for Parkinson’s disease is **carbidopa/levodopa**, often known by the brand name **Sinemet**. It is generally considered the most effective medication for movement symptoms such as slowness, stiffness, and tremor.
Other common medications include dopamine agonists such as Mirapex, Requip, and Neupro; MAO-B inhibitors such as Azilect and selegiline; and amantadine, which may be used for dyskinesia and certain other symptoms.
The best medication is different for each person and depends on their symptoms, age, other medical conditions, and possible side effects. Please talk with your doctor or neurologist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you are asking about medication for a specific symptom, please tell us which symptom you mean.
@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member, When I told the doctor who diagnosed me, that my great grandfather had Parkinson's back in the 1960s, she told me that he was probably prescribed Carbodopa/Levadopa (C/L). Thankfully, we've come a long way since then because I can't tolerate the basic C/L. I thank the Lord for Rytary!
Great question! There are several commonly used medications for Parkinson's disease, and they generally work by boosting or mimicking dopamine in the brain. Here's a quick rundown:
Dopaminergic Medications (the most widely used)
- Levodopa/carbidopa (Sinemet, Rytary, Duopa, Crexont)
- Levodopa inhaled (Inbrija)
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Carbidopa/Lavadopa immediate release is usually the first prescription. I’m on Extended release 4x/day plus Ropinarole at the same frequency.
Are you asking about motor symptoms only?