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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.

Mayo Clinic Rochester diagnosed me with stage one Parkinson's.

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭

I was sent home to begin Sinemet, but I'm worried the starting dose is too much at two 25/100 mg three times a day taken at 7-1-7
Historical, I'm drug sensitive. Any thoughts would be welcomed. I'm pretty scared.

September 26
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around a newly diagnosed Parkinson's member worried about starting Sinemet, reassuring them that two 25/100mg tablets three... Read more

Members rallied around a newly diagnosed Parkinson's member worried about starting Sinemet, reassuring them that two 25/100mg tablets three times daily is a fairly standard starting dose that gets adjusted over time based on individual symptoms, size, and sensitivity. Several members shared their own dosing journeys, noting that food and protein can interfere with absorption, and that the 12-hour overnight gap may be worth discussing with a doctor, especially for those with active symptoms at night. A recurring theme was that every person with Parkinson's is unique, and members encouraged speaking openly with a neurologist, considering exercise as a powerful tool, and leaning on the community for support.

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Yes, 2 tablets 3 times daily is not a high dose but as others have said it will take some time to teaching your individual best dosing. One key factor is avoiding “off time “ or downtime. I take 1 1/2 tablets every 2 to 3 hours, doing the best I can to take at least one half hour before eating or one hour after eating to help ensure good absorption as food , especially protein interferes with absorption. Also a 12 hour lapse in medicine- 7pm to 7am is a long time. In addition to my 2 to 3 hour dosing I take 1 sinemet and 1 extended release sinemet at bedtime and before starting my day in the morning I take 2 sinemet and 1 sinemet extended release an hour before arising.

September 29
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member and @A MyParkinsonsTeam Member, I take Rytary on that exact schedule. When I first started, however, it was more gradually; taking one pill at time. I can't remember the exact layout, but I gradually went up to 3 pills 3 times a day. When When my symptoms worsened, I was told to bump it up to 4 pills 3 times a day.

September 27
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member, I suggest that you discuss this with your pharmacist. They know more about reactions to medications than doctors.

September 26
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Call your doctor tell the doctor you want to start slow. Just like you told us. You can always add more. See what the doctor says.

October 8
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Thank you everyone for taking the time out of your busy days to answer a question from a newbie such as myself. Please know it feels so nice to have friends in this journey. Have a very nice day!

September 29

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