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Carbidopa and Levodopa
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC Directory| Ingredient | Strength | RxCUI | Monograph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbidopa | 23.75 mg/1 | 308988 | View |
| Carbidopa | 36.25 mg/1 | 308988 | View |
| Carbidopa | 48.75 mg/1 | 308988 | View |
| Carbidopa | 61.25 mg/1 | 308988 | View |
| Levodopa | 145 mg/1 | 308988 | View |
| Levodopa | 195 mg/1 | 308988 | View |
| Levodopa | 245 mg/1 | 308988 | View |
| Levodopa | 95 mg/1 | 308988 | View |
Forms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Amino Acids | EPC | All 11 members |
| Aromatic Amino Acid [EPC] | EPC | All 11 members |
| Aromatic [CS] | CS | All 11 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 203312-001 | RYTARY | CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE | CARBIDOPA; LEVODOPA | Prescription | — | RLD | |
| 203312-002 | RYTARY | CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE | CARBIDOPA; LEVODOPA | Prescription | — | RLD | |
| 203312-003 | RYTARY | CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE | CARBIDOPA; LEVODOPA | Prescription | — | RLD | |
| 203312-004 | RYTARY | CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE | CARBIDOPA; LEVODOPA | Prescription | — | RLD RS |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookCodes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Patents and exclusivity
Source: Orange Book| Patent | Expires | Product | Substance | Use code | Submitted |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9089607 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | U-1645 | August 10, 2015 |
| 8377474 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | U-219 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8377474 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | U-1645 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | U-1645 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | U-1649 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | U-1646 | January 27, 2015 |
| 9089607 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | U-1720 | August 10, 2015 |
| 8557283 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | U-219 | January 27, 2015 |
| 9901640 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | U-219 | February 28, 2018 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | U-1647 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8557283 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | U-1645 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | U-219 | January 27, 2015 |
| 9533046 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | U-219 | January 11, 2017 |
| 9463246 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | U-219 | October 12, 2016 |
| 9089608 | December 26, 2028 | 001 | No | August 10, 2015 | |
| 8377474 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | U-219 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | U-1649 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | U-219 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | U-1647 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8557283 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | U-219 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8557283 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | U-1645 | January 27, 2015 |
| 9901640 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | U-219 | February 28, 2018 |
| 9089607 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | U-1645 | August 10, 2015 |
| 9533046 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | U-219 | January 11, 2017 |
| 9463246 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | U-219 | October 12, 2016 |
| 9089607 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | U-1720 | August 10, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | U-1645 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | U-1646 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8377474 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | U-1645 | January 27, 2015 |
| 9089608 | December 26, 2028 | 002 | No | August 10, 2015 | |
| 9089607 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | U-1645 | August 10, 2015 |
| 9089607 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | U-1720 | August 10, 2015 |
| 8377474 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | U-219 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | U-1645 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | U-1647 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | U-1649 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | U-219 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8557283 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | U-1645 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | U-1646 | January 27, 2015 |
| 9463246 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | U-219 | October 12, 2016 |
| 9901640 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | U-219 | February 28, 2018 |
| 9533046 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | U-219 | January 11, 2017 |
| 8557283 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | U-219 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8377474 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | U-1645 | January 27, 2015 |
| 9089608 | December 26, 2028 | 003 | No | August 10, 2015 | |
| 8377474 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | U-1645 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | U-1646 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | U-219 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | U-1645 | January 27, 2015 |
| 9089607 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | U-1645 | August 10, 2015 |
| 9463246 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | U-219 | October 12, 2016 |
| 8557283 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | U-1645 | January 27, 2015 |
| 9089607 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | U-1720 | August 10, 2015 |
| 8377474 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | U-219 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | U-1649 | January 27, 2015 |
| 8557283 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | U-219 | January 27, 2015 |
| 9901640 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | U-219 | February 28, 2018 |
| 8454998 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | U-1647 | January 27, 2015 |
| 9533046 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | U-219 | January 11, 2017 |
| 9089608 | December 26, 2028 | 004 | No | August 10, 2015 |
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 26 | Labeling | Approved | March 19, 2026 | Standard |
| Supplement | 11 | Labeling | Approved | December 17, 2019 | Standard |
| Supplement | 6 | Labeling | Approved | October 27, 2016 | Standard |
| Supplement | 4 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | June 3, 2016 | Standard |
| Supplement | 3 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | April 13, 2016 | Standard |
| Supplement | 2 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | December 14, 2015 | Standard |
| Supplement | 1 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | December 14, 2015 | Standard |
| Original application | 1 | Type 5 - New Formulation or New Manufacturer | Approved | January 7, 2015 | Standard |
Review documents
- 0 · Supplement · March 24, 2026
- 0 · Supplement · March 23, 2026
- 0 · Supplement · December 20, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · December 18, 2019
- 0 · Supplement · May 19, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · October 31, 2016
- 0 · Original application · June 15, 2016
- 0 · Original application · June 15, 2016
- 0 · Original application · January 8, 2015
- 0 · Original application · January 8, 2015
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260429). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules are indicated for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, post-encephalitic parkinsonism, and parkinsonism that may follow carbon monoxide intoxication or manganese intoxication. Carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsule is a combination of carbidopa (an aromatic amino acid decarboxylation inhibitor) and levodopa (an aromatic amino acid) indicated for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, post-encephalitic parkinsonism, and parkinsonism that may follow carbon monoxide intoxication or manganese intoxication ( 1 )
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Levodopa-naïve patients: Starting dose is 23.75 mg / 95 mg three times daily; may increase to 36.25 mg / 145 mg three times daily on the fourth day of treatment ( 2.1 ) See Table 1 for instructions for converting patients taking immediate-release carbidopa-levodopa to an initial dose of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules. Dosages of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules are not interchangeable with other carbidopa-levodopa products ( 2.2 ) The maximum recommended daily dose of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules is 612.5 mg/2,450 mg ( 2.1 , 2.2 ) Carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules may be taken with or without food; do not chew, divide or crush ( 2.4 , 12.3 ) 2.1 Dosage in Patients Naïve to Levodopa Therapy The recommended starting dosage of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules in levodopa-naïve patients is 23.75 mg/95 mg taken orally three times a day for the first 3 days. On the fourth day of treatment, the dosage of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules may be increased to 36.25 mg/145 mg taken three times a day. Based upon individual patient clinical response and tolerability, the carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules dose may be increased up to a maximum recommended dose of 97.5 mg/390 mg taken three times a day. The dosing frequency may be changed from three times a day to a maximum of five times a day if more frequent dosing is needed and if tolerated. Maintain patients on the lowest dosage required to achieve symptomatic control and to minimize adverse reactions such as dyskinesia and nausea. The maximum recommended daily dose of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules is 612.5 mg/2,450 mg. 2.2 Converting from Immediate-Release Carbidopa-Levodopa to Carbidopa and Levodopa Extended-Release Capsules The dosages of other carbidopa and levodopa products are not interchangeable on a 1:1 basis with the dosages of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules. To convert patients from immediate-release carbidopa-levodopa to carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules, first calculate the patient's current total daily dose of levodopa. The starting total daily dose of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules is as recommended in Table 1. After conversion, any combination of the four carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules dosage strengths can be used to achieve an optimal dosing. Adjust the dose and dosing frequency as necessary to maintain patient tolerance and sufficient symptomatic control. Administration of concomitant Parkinson's disease medications should remain stable while adjusting the carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules dose. In clinical trials, carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules were administered in divided doses of three to five times a day. The maximum recommended total daily dose of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsule is 612.5 mg/2,450 mg. For patients currently treated with carbidopa and levodopa plus a catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT) inhibitor (such as entacapone), the initial total daily dose of levodopa in carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules described in Table 1 may need to be increased. Use of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules in combination with other levodopa products has not been studied. Table 1 Conversion from Immediate-Release Carbidopa-Levodopa to Carbidopa and Levodopa Extended-Release Capsules Total Daily Dose of Levodopa in Immediate-Release Carbidopa- Levodopa Recommended Starting Dosage of Carbidopa and Levodopa Extended-Release Capsules Total Daily Dose of Levodopa in Carbidopa and Levodopa Extended-Release Capsules Carbidopa and Levodopa Extended-Release Capsules Dosing Regimen 400 mg to 549 mg 855 mg 3 capsules carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules 23.75 mg/95 mg taken TID a 550 mg to 749 mg 1,140 mg 4 capsules carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules 23.75 mg …
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Carbidopa and Levodopa Extended-release Capsules, 23.75 mg/95 mg: blue and white capsule imprinted with IPX066 on the capsule cap and 95 on the capsule body. Carbidopa and Levodopa Extended-release Capsules, 36.25 mg/145 mg: blue and light blue capsule imprinted with IPX066 on the capsule cap and 145 on the capsule body. Carbidopa and Levodopa Extended-release Capsules, 48.75 mg/195 mg: blue and yellow capsule imprinted with IPX066 on the capsule cap and 195 on the capsule body. Carbidopa and Levodopa Extended-release Capsules, 61.25 mg/245 mg: blue capsule imprinted with IPX066 on the capsule cap and 245 on the capsule body. Extended-release capsules: Carbidopa and levodopa 23.75 mg/95 mg, 36.25 mg/145 mg, 48.75 mg/195 mg, 61.25 mg/245 mg ( 3 )
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules are contraindicated in patients: Currently taking a nonselective monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor (e.g., phenelzine and tranylcypromine) or have recently (within 2 weeks) taken a nonselective MAO inhibitor. Hypertension can occur if these drugs are used concurrently [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )] . Nonselective MAO inhibitors ( 4 )
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS May cause falling asleep during activities of daily living ( 5.1 ) Avoid sudden discontinuation or rapid dose reduction to reduce the risk of withdrawal-emergent hyperpyrexia and confusion ( 5.2 ) Cardiovascular Events: Monitor patients with a history of cardiovascular disease ( 5.3 ) Hallucinations/Psychosis may occur ( 5.4 ) Impulse Control Disorders: Consider dose reduction or stopping carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules if occurs ( 5.5 ) May cause or exacerbate dyskinesia: Consider dose reduction ( 5.6 ) 5.1 Falling Asleep During Activities of Daily Living and Somnolence Patients treated with levodopa, a component of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules, have reported falling asleep while engaged in activities of daily living, including the operation of motor vehicles, which sometimes resulted in accidents. Although many of these patients reported somnolence while on levodopa, some perceived that they had no warning signs (sleep attack), such as excessive drowsiness, and believed that they were alert immediately prior to the event. Some of these events have been reported more than 1 year after initiation of treatment. It has been reported that falling asleep while engaged in activities of daily living usually occurs in a setting of pre-existing somnolence, although patients may not give such a history. For this reason, prescribers should reassess patients for drowsiness or sleepiness in carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules-treated patients, especially since some of the events occur well after the start of treatment. Prescribers should also be aware that patients may not acknowledge drowsiness or sleepiness until directly questioned about drowsiness or sleepiness during specific activities. Before initiating treatment with carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules, advise patients of the potential to develop drowsiness and specifically ask about factors that may increase the risk for somnolence with carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules such as concomitant sedating medications or the presence of a sleep disorder. Consider discontinuing carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules in patients who report significant daytime sleepiness or episodes of falling asleep during activities that require active participation (e.g., conversations, eating, etc.). If a decision is made to continue carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules, patients should be advised not to drive and to avoid other potentially dangerous activities that might result in harm if the patients become somnolent. There is insufficient information to establish that dose reduction will eliminate episodes of falling asleep while engaged in activities of daily living. 5.2 Withdrawal-Emergent Hyperpyrexia and Confusion A symptom complex that resembles neuroleptic malignant syndrome (characterized by elevated temperature, muscular rigidity, altered consciousness, and autonomic instability), with no other obvious etiology, has been reported in association with rapid dose reduction, withdrawal of, or changes in dopaminergic therapy. Avoid sudden discontinuation or rapid dose reduction in patients taking carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules. If the decision is made to discontinue carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules, the dose should be tapered to reduce the risk of hyperpyrexia and confusion [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.4 )] . 5.3 Cardiovascular Ischemic Events Cardiovascular ischemic events have occurred in patients taking carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules. In a placebo controlled clinical study in patients with early Parkinson's disease, 7/289 (2.4%) of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules-treated patients experienced cardiovascular ischemic adverse reactions compared to 1/92 (1.1%) of placebo-treated patients. In an active-controlled clinical study in patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, 3/450 (0.7%) of carbidopa a …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are discussed below and elsewhere in the labeling: Falling Asleep During Activities of Daily Living and Somnolence [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] Withdrawal-Emergent Hyperpyrexia and Confusion [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Cardiovascular Ischemic Events [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] Hallucinations/Psychosis [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Impulse Control/Compulsive Behaviors [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] Dyskinesia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] Peptic Ulcer Disease [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] Glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] Early Parkinson's disease: Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 5% and greater than placebo) are nausea, dizziness, headache, insomnia, abnormal dreams, dry mouth, dyskinesia, anxiety, constipation, vomiting, and orthostatic hypotension ( 6.1 ) Advanced Parkinson's disease: Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 5% and greater than oral immediate-release carbidopa-levodopa) are nausea and headache ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Zydus Pharmaceuticals (USA) Inc. at 1-877-993-8779 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. The safety population consisted of a total of 978 Parkinson's disease patients who received at least one dose of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules, and had an average duration of exposure of 40 weeks. Adverse Reactions in Early Parkinson's Disease In a placebo-controlled clinical study in patients with early Parkinson's disease (Study 1), the most common adverse reactions with carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules (in at least 5% of patients and more frequently than in placebo) were nausea, dizziness, headache, insomnia, abnormal dreams, dry mouth, dyskinesia, anxiety, constipation, vomiting, and orthostatic hypotension. Table 2 lists adverse reactions occurring in at least 5% of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules-treated patients and at a higher rate than placebo in Study 1. Table 2 Adverse Reactions in Study 1 in Patients with Early Stage Parkinson's Disease Placebo Carbidopa and Levodopa Extended-release Capsules 36.25 mg Carbidopa Carbidopa and Levodopa Extended-release Capsules 61.25 mg Carbidopa Carbidopa and Levodopa Extended-release Capsules 97.5 mg Carbidopa 145 mg Levodopa TID 245 mg Levodopa TID 390 mg Levodopa TID (N=92) (N=87) (N=104) (N=98) % % % % Nausea 9 14 19 20 Dizziness 5 9 19 12 Headache 11 7 13 17 Insomnia 3 2 9 6 Abnormal Dreams 0 2 6 5 Dry Mouth 1 3 2 7 Dyskinesia 0 2 4 5 Anxiety 0 2 3 5 Constipation 1 2 6 2 Vomiting 3 2 2 5 Orthostatic Hypotension 1 1 1 5 Adverse Reactions Leading to Discontinuation in Study 1 In Study 1, 12% of patients discontinued carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules early due to adverse reactions; a higher proportion of patients in the 61.25 mg/ 245 mg carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules-treated group (14%) and in the 97.5 mg/390 mg carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules-treated group (15%) experienced adverse reactions leading to early discontinuation compared to (4%) in the placebo group. The most common adverse reactions resulting in early discontinuation were nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. Adverse Reactions in Advanced Parkinson's Disease In an active-controlled clinical study in patients with advanced Parkinson's disease (Study 2), the most common adverse reactions with carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules that occurred during dose conversion or maintenance (in at least 5% of patients and more frequently than on oral immediate-release carbidopa-levodopa) were nausea and headache. …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Iron salts and dopamine D2 antagonists including metoclopramide: May reduce the effectiveness of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules ( 7.2 , 7.3 ) 7.1 Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) Inhibitors The use of nonselective MAO inhibitors with carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules is contraindicated [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Discontinue use of any nonselective MAO inhibitors at least two weeks prior to initiating carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules. The use of selective MAO-B inhibitors (e.g., rasagiline and selegiline) with carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules may be associated with orthostatic hypotension. Monitor patients who are taking these drugs concurrently. 7.2 Dopamine D2 Receptor Antagonists and Isoniazid Dopamine D2 receptor antagonists (e.g., phenothiazines, butyrophenones, risperidone, metoclopramide) and isoniazid may reduce the effectiveness of levodopa. Monitor patients for worsening Parkinson's symptoms. 7.3 Iron Salts Iron salts or multivitamins containing iron salts can form chelates with levodopa and carbidopa and can cause a reduction in the bioavailability of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules. If iron salts or multivitamins containing iron salts are co-administered with carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules, monitor patients for worsening Parkinson's symptoms.
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Pregnancy: Based on animal data, may cause fetal harm ( 8.1 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary There are no adequate data on the developmental risk associated with the use of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules in pregnant women. In animal studies, carbidopa-levodopa has been shown to be developmentally toxic (including teratogenic effects) at clinically relevant doses (see Data) . The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data When administered to pregnant rabbits throughout organogenesis, carbidopa-levodopa caused both visceral and skeletal malformation in fetuses at all doses and ratios of carbidopa-levodopa tested. No teratogenic effects were observed when carbidopa-levodopa was administered to pregnant mice throughout organogenesis. There was a decrease in the number of live pups delivered by rats receiving carbidopa-levodopa during organogenesis. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Levodopa has been detected in human milk after administration of carbidopa-levodopa. There are no data on the presence of carbidopa in human milk, the effects of levodopa or carbidopa on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. However, inhibition of lactation may occur because levodopa decreases secretion of prolactin in humans. Carbidopa is excreted in rat milk. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established. 8.5 Geriatric Use In controlled clinical trials of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules, 418 patients were 65 years or older and no overall differences in safety and efficacy were observed between these patients and those under 65 years of age.
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action Carbidopa When levodopa is administered orally, it is rapidly decarboxylated to dopamine in extracerebral tissues so that only a small portion of a given dose is transported unchanged to the central nervous system. Carbidopa inhibits the decarboxylation of peripheral levodopa, making more levodopa available for delivery to the brain. Levodopa Levodopa is the metabolic precursor of dopamine, does cross the blood-brain barrier, and presumably is converted to dopamine in the brain. This is thought to be the mechanism whereby levodopa relieves symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION Carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsule is a combination of carbidopa, an inhibitor of aromatic amino acid decarboxylation, and levodopa, an aromatic amino acid, in extended-release capsules for oral use. Carbidopa is a white to creamy white powder, slightly soluble in water, with a molecular weight of 244.2. It is designated chemically as (-)-L-α-hydrazino-3, 4-dihydroxy-α-methylhydrocinnamic acid monohydrate. Its molecular formula is C 10 H 14 N 2 O 4 • H 2 O and its structural formula is: Capsule content is expressed in terms of anhydrous carbidopa, which has a molecular weight of 226.2. Levodopa is a white to off-white, crystalline powder, slightly soluble in water, with a molecular weight of 197.2. It is designated chemically as (−)-3-(3, 4-Dihydroxyphenyl)-L-alanine. Its molecular formula is C 9 H 11 NO 4 and its structural formula is: Each extended-release capsule contains 23.75 mg carbidopa, USP and 95 mg levodopa USP, 36.25 mg carbidopa, USP and 145 mg levodopa USP, 48.75 mg carbidopa, USP and 195 mg levodopa USP, or 61.25 mg carbidopa, USP and 245 mg levodopa USP. The inactive ingredients are microcrystalline cellulose, mannitol, tartaric acid, ethyl cellulose, hypromellose, sodium starch glycolate, sodium lauryl sulfate, povidone, talc, methacrylic acid copolymers, triethyl citrate, croscarmellose sodium, and magnesium stearate. All capsule shells contain gelatin and titanium dioxide. In addition, all blue capsule shells contain FD&C Blue #2 and yellow iron oxide. All yellow capsule shells contain yellow iron oxide. All capsules imprinted with blue pharmaceutical ink contain FD&C Blue #2, butyl alcohol, dehydrated alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, propylene glycol, shellac and strong ammonia solution. Image Image
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 OVERDOSAGE In the active-controlled clinical study, a patient accidentally ingested 4.68 grams of carbidopa/18.7 grams of levodopa contained in carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules over a 2-day period. The patient experienced acute psychosis and dyskinesias. The patient recovered and completed the study on a reduced dose of carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules. Based on the limited available information, the acute symptoms of levodopa/dopa decarboxylase inhibitor overdosage can be expected to arise from dopaminergic overstimulation. Doses of a few grams may result in CNS disturbances, with an increasing likelihood of cardiovascular disturbance (e.g., hypotension, tachycardia) and more severe psychiatric problems at higher doses. An isolated report of rhabdomyolysis and another of transient renal insufficiency suggest that levodopa overdosage may give rise to systemic complications, secondary to dopaminergic overstimulation. Monitor patients and provide supportive care. Patients should receive electrocardiographic monitoring for the development of arrhythmias; if needed, appropriate antiarrhythmic therapy should be given. The possibility that the patient may have taken other drugs, increasing the risk of drug interactions (especially catechol-structured drugs) should be taken into consideration.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING 16.1 How Supplied Carbidopa and Levodopa Extended-release Capsules, 48.75 mg/195 mg: blue and yellow capsule imprinted with IPX066 on the capsule cap and 195 on the capsule body and are supplied as follows: NDC: 70518-4621-00 NDC: 70518-4621-01 OUTER PACKAGING: 50 in 1 BOX PACKAGING: 1 in 1 POUCH Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Store in a tightly closed container, protected from light and moisture. Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP. Repackaged and Distributed By: Remedy Repack, Inc. 625 Kolter Dr. Suite #4 Indiana, PA 1-724-465-8762 17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION Dosing Instructions Advise patients to not take other carbidopa-levodopa preparations with carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules without consulting their healthcare provider [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 )] . Advise patients to call their healthcare provider before stopping carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules. Discontinue carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules slowly. Tell patients to call their healthcare provider if they develop withdrawal symptoms such as fever, confusion or severe muscle stiffness [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )]. Advise patients to swallow carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules whole, without chewing, dividing, or crushing [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.4 )] . For patients with difficulty swallowing, the entire contents of the carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsule may be sprinkled on 1 to 2 tablespoons of applesauce and should be taken immediately [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.4 )] . Inform patients that a high fat, high calorie meal may delay the absorption of levodopa and the onset of action by 2 to 3 hours. For this reason, consideration should be given to taking the first dose of the day about 1 to 2 hours before eating [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.4 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Falling Asleep Advise patients that certain side effects such as sleepiness and dizziness that have been reported with carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules may affect some patients' ability to drive and operate machinery safely [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) and Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . Suicide Attempt and Suicidal Ideation Instruct patients, family members and caregivers to notify their healthcare provider if suicide attempt and/or suicidal ideation are experienced by patients using carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] . Hallucinations and Psychosis Inform patients that hallucinations can occur with levodopa products [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] . Impulse Control Disorder Inform patients of the potential for experiencing intense urges to gamble, increased sexual urges, and other intense urges and the inability to control these urges while taking one or more of the medications that increase central dopaminergic tone, that are generally used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] . Dyskinesia Instruct patients to notify their healthcare provider if abnormal involuntary movements appear or get worse during treatment with carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] . Hypotension and Syncope Advise patients that they may develop orthostatic hypotension with or without symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, syncope, and sweating [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . Advise patients to rise slowly after sitting or lying down, especially if they have been doing so for a prolonged period. Advise patients of the possible additive sedative effects when taking other CNS depressants in combination with carbidopa and levodopa extended-release capsules. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Advise patients to notify their healthcare prov …
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: LEVODOPA. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 70518-4610-0 | 70518-4610 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | 50 POUCH in 1 BOX (70518-4610-0) / 1 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 POUCH (70518-4610-1) | April 23, 2026 |
| 70518-4618-0 | 70518-4618 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | 50 POUCH in 1 BOX (70518-4618-0) / 1 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 POUCH (70518-4618-1) | April 24, 2026 |
| 70518-4621-0 | 70518-4621 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | 50 POUCH in 1 BOX (70518-4621-0) / 1 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 POUCH (70518-4621-1) | April 24, 2026 |
| 70518-4630-0 | 70518-4630 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | 50 POUCH in 1 BOX (70518-4630-0) / 1 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 POUCH (70518-4630-1) | April 24, 2026 |
| 70710-2139-1 | 70710-2139 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 100 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-2139-1) | October 20, 2025 |
| 70710-2140-1 | 70710-2140 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 100 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-2140-1) | October 20, 2025 |
| 70710-2141-1 | 70710-2141 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 100 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-2141-1) | October 20, 2025 |
| 70710-2142-1 | 70710-2142 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 100 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (70710-2142-1) | October 20, 2025 |
| 70518-4610 | 70518-4610 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | — | April 23, 2026 |
| 70518-4618 | 70518-4618 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | — | April 24, 2026 |
| 70518-4621 | 70518-4621 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | — | April 24, 2026 |
| 70518-4630 | 70518-4630 | REMEDYREPACK INC. | — | April 24, 2026 |
| 70710-2139 | 70710-2139 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | October 20, 2025 |
| 70710-2140 | 70710-2140 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | October 20, 2025 |
| 70710-2141 | 70710-2141 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | October 20, 2025 |
| 70710-2142 | 70710-2142 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | October 20, 2025 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 13 sections on this page.