Sinemet
Carbidopa with levodopa in three tablet strengths, plain and prolonged-release, used in the management of Parkinson's disease. A precursor with its protector.
- Condition
- Parkinson's Disease
- Alternative names
- Sinemet CR
- Therapeutic class
- Dopaminergic Agent
- Pharmacological class
- Decarboxylase Inhibitor/Dopamine Precursor
- Minor side effects
- dyskinesia; nausea; dizziness; dry mouth
- Moderate side effects
- orthostatic hypotension; confusion; insomnia
- Dosage forms
- Tablet; Prolonged-release tablet
- Administration route
- Oral use
- Originator
- MSD
- Onset Time
- 30–60 minutes
- Duration
- 3–6 hours
- Storage instructions
- Store below 25°C in original packaging.
- Drug interactions
- antipsychotics; iron supplements; antihypertensives
- Age restrictions
- Not for paediatric use.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Pregnancy: Not recommended. Breastfeeding: Not recommended.
Contraindications
hypersensitivity to ingredients; narrow-angle glaucoma; concurrent use of non-selective mao inhibitors
Precautions and warnings
may cause sudden sleep onset; monitor for impulse control disorders; periodic haematological monitoring advised
Serious side effects
hallucinations, requires immediate medical attention; neuroleptic malignant syndrome, requires immediate medical attention
Patient summary
Carbidopa with levodopa in three tablet strengths, plain and prolonged-release, used in the management of Parkinson's disease. A precursor with its protector.
Mechanism of action
Levodopa is a precursor to dopamine that crosses the blood-brain barrier. Carbidopa prevents peripheral metabolism of levodopa, increasing the amount available for dopamine conversion in the brain.
Sinemet is the standard treatment for Parkinson’s Disease, containing the active ingredients Carbidopa and Levodopa. The same components are also marketed under the brand Sinemet CR. These tablets are used to manage symptoms and are available in strengths of 10/100, 25/100 and 25/250mg.
Buying Sinemet online
Generic Carbidopa and Levodopa are often available as a more affordable solution than the original MSD brand, making it easier for those living away from local medical suppliers to coordinate delivery across Singapore and Malaysia.
Do I get the original Sinemet?
No. SGMeds ships a generic with the same active ingredients (carbidopa and levodopa) at the strength you choose, not the original Sinemet made by MSD. We use the brand name so you can find the medicine, and the generic's manufacturer varies with stock.
How much does Sinemet cost in Singapore?
Sinemet comes in 10/100, 25/100 and 25/250mg strengths, in packs of 30 to 360 tablets. Each option's price is shown on this page in Singapore dollars, converted from US dollars, so the exchange rate can change the final amount. Larger packs work out cheaper per tablet.
Payment and prices →What is Sinemet used for?
Sinemet is used for Parkinson's disease.
How long does Sinemet take to work?
Sinemet usually starts to work within 30 to 60 minutes. Timing differs from person to person.
Can Sinemet cause side effects?
Yes. The most common side effects of carbidopa and levodopa are uncontrolled movements (dyskinesia), nausea, dizziness and dry mouth. Less common ones are dizziness on standing (orthostatic hypotension), confusion and insomnia. Serious side effects include hallucinations and a rare reaction with high fever and stiff muscles (neuroleptic malignant syndrome). Get medical help straight away if you notice one of these serious effects.
Can I take Sinemet with other medicines?
Carbidopa and levodopa can interact with antipsychotics, iron supplements and antihypertensives. Before you start Sinemet, tell your doctor or pharmacist about any medicines, supplements or herbal remedies you take.
Do I need a prescription for Sinemet in Singapore?
No. SGMeds does not ask for a prescription to order Sinemet: we place the order with our pharmacy partner, which prepares it and arranges delivery on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Do you deliver Sinemet to Singapore?
Yes. We deliver to Singapore and Malaysia. Express shipping is tracked and takes up to 1 week, and Regular shipping takes up to 3 weeks.
How ordering works →What you will receive
Sinemet is the originator brand name, made by MSD. We use it here to identify the medicine only; we are not affiliated with MSD and do not ship the original Sinemet.
- You receive a generic equivalent: the same active ingredient (Carbidopa / Levodopa) at the same dose, mostly recognised Indian branded generics from vetted manufacturers.
- The exact brand supplied depends on what is in stock at the dispatching warehouse.
- A regulated generic matches the original ingredient for ingredient by legal standard.