Restless Legs Syndrome

Dopamine Precursor

Levodopa primarily acts by increasing dopamine concentrations in the brain. Carbidopa, which is a decarboxylase inhibitor does not cross the blood-brain barrier and retards the peripheral breakdown of levodopa. In selected patients, long-term therapy with levodopa/carbidopa (Sinemet® or Sinemet CR) may remain effective for several years, with tolerable side effects.137,211,212 Because of the risk of augmentation, the use of levodopa preparation is typically reserved for those patients who have intermittent or rare symptoms of RLS that require treatment.144,203