Carbidopa
Carbidopa is a peripheral DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor used in combination with levodopa for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and parkinsonism. It has no intrinsic antiparkinsonian effects when used alone and must be combined with levodopa to be effective.
Carbidopa is a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor used with levodopa to treat Parkinson's disease by increasing levodopa availability to the brain.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 2019
- Generic
- Carbidopa
- Class
- unclassified
- Brands
- Stalevo, Rytary, Duopa, Lodosyn, Dhivy, Crexont, Vyalev, Sinemet
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- injection, capsule, tablet, suspension
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
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Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Used in combination with levodopa for treatment of Parkinson's disease and related parkinsonism syndromes. Not effective as monotherapy.
Inhibits peripheral DOPA decarboxylase enzyme, preventing conversion of levodopa to dopamine outside the central nervous system. This increases levodopa delivery to the brain and reduces peripheral side effects.
Always administered with levodopa, never alone. Available in fixed-dose combinations with levodopa. Reduces peripheral side effects of levodopa such as nausea, vomiting, and cardiac arrhythmias. May cause dark urine or sweat.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy