Vitamin B6 - Sinemet (Carbidopa, Levodopa) Interaction

Interaction Details

Carbidopa, Levodopa is classified as belonging to the following category: Levodopa

Vitamin B6 may increase the metabolism of levodopa when taken alone, but not when taken in conjunction with carbidopa.
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) enhances the metabolism of levodopa, reducing its clinical effects. However, this interaction does not occur when carbidopa is used concurrently with levodopa (Sinemet). Therefore, it is not likely to be a problem in most people.

Interaction Rating

Likelihood of Occurrence

Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

References

• Hansten PD, Horn JR. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Vancouver, WA: Applied Therapeutics Inc., 1997 and updates.

Carbidopa, Levodopa Overview

• The combination of levodopa and carbidopa is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease and Parkinson's-like symptoms that may develop after encephalitis (swelling of the brain) or injury to the nervous system caused by carbon monoxide poisoning or manganese poisoning. Parkinson's symptoms, including tremors (shaking), stiffness, and slowness of movement, are caused by a lack of dopamine, a natural substance usually found in the brain. Levodopa is in a class of medications called central nervous system agents. It works by being converted to dopamine in the brain. Carbidopa is in a class of medications called decarboxylase inhibitors. It works by preventing levodopa from being broken down before it reaches the brain. This allows for a lower dose of levodopa, which causes less nausea and vomiting.

Vitamin B6 - More Interactions

Vitamin B6 interacts with 206 drugs

Interaction Rating Key

These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.