Levadopa

[blazyb]

I have just started to take Levadopa (Stalevo 75mg * 3 per day). Any view on how long it has taken you to take effect and work at full efficacy? I am already on Sifrol, Amanadin, Azilect and Dekinet (which he wants me to gradually reduce)

[jimcaster]

My doctor had me begin with 1/2 pill of Sinemet (25/100 immediate release) 3 times per day for a week, then 1 pill 3 times per day the second week and 1.5 pills 3 times per day the third week. At first, 1.5 seemed right, but I eventually scaled back to 1 pill. It took about a month to get things stabilized. I primarily used my handwriting as a guide to dosage. I would wait about an hour after taking medication and then test my writing. Another guide for me was my gait and my arm swing while walking. A dose of 1 pill three times per day is the lowest dose which enables me to function normally. It was a real game changer. I take several supplements (mostly B vitamins) and use the coronet duo red hat, but Sinemet is my only medication. Good luck! Early in my PD experience, I received an email from Dr. Constanti, the Italian neurologist who promoted high doses of B1 (Thiamine HCL) for PD, who closed the email with these words, "You'll be fine forever." I am only four years into this journey, but nothing has happened to suggest he was wrong, so I'll offer these words to you: You'll be fine forever. You're taking good care of yourself now and the next major breakthrough (stem cells, gene therapy, advances in focused ultrasound, and/or medications) are in your future. 😊

[blazyb in reply to jimcaster]

Thank you 👍

[Smittybear7 in reply to jimcaster]

Did you notice any involuntary movement when you had too much Carbidopa levodopa? Did they disappear when you cut back? Yesterday I walked the quarter mile 2 hours after my afternoon medication. I also noticed an increase have involuntary movement could that be from too much dopamine? Thanks for your help

[jimcaster in reply to Smittybear7]

I have never had any involuntary movements.

[Myfatcat in reply to jimcaster]

Don't forget Farnesol.

[Hidden in reply to jimcaster]

Agreed! And your wonderful attitude is so appreciated because it is contagious!