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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.
September 3
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A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Hi Ken.
To be totally honest with you not one of us on this site would be qualified to answer that question .
You will have to go see your
Medical team Sorry about that now Ken and I hope you get your answer soon.
All the best
Therese Byrne ☘️ 🇮🇪

September 4
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Agree - movement disorder specialist

September 4
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Well honestly, that's a professional movement disorder specialist question!!! My dose changed fairly fast after starting, it's not unusual!!! Noone should advise to this concern other than at minimum a general neurologist ... be very careful winging it, way too many factors even in supplements, that learning curve takes A LOT OF EXPERIENCE!!! Sending positive vibes for a resolution!!!

September 3
MyParkinsonsTeam

It sounds like your wife is experiencing what's known as "wearing off" — where Sinemet stops working effectively before the next dose is due. This is a common challenge as Parkinson's progresses, and there are several options her doctor can explore.

Here are some medication adjustments that may help:

- Changing the timing Show Full Answer

It sounds like your wife is experiencing what's known as "wearing off" — where Sinemet stops working effectively before the next dose is due. This is a common challenge as Parkinson's progresses, and there are several options her doctor can explore.

Here are some medication adjustments that may help:

- Changing the timing or dose of Sinemet to reduce gaps in coverage
- Switching to extended-release levodopa (like Rytary or Crexont) for a slower, more steady release
- Adding rasagiline (Azilect) or entacapone (Comtan) to help extend the effect of each dose
- Adding amantadine (Gocovri) to help manage involuntary movements if those are also a concern
- Continuous infusion devices that deliver medication steadily under the skin or through the gut, such as Duopa or Vyalev

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is another option worth discussing with her neurologist if medications alone aren't providing enough control. A few lifestyle tips that may also help alongside medication:

- Try taking Sinemet at least 30 minutes before or 60 minutes after meals
- Limit high-protein foods (meat, fish, eggs, cheese) to later in the day, as protein can compete with levodopa absorption
- If she takes iron supplements, space them at least 2 hours apart from her Sinemet doses

The most important next step is speaking with her neurologist as soon as possible about these options. Bringing a symptom diary — noting when doses are taken and when symptoms break through — can make those conversations much more productive.

September 3

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