Started Carbidopa/Levodopa Today

@dedhambeth

It is common to have sleep problems as well as vivid dreams for patients with PD. I have often awakened feeling tired from all the activity in my dreams. The Davis Phinney Foundation Website is a great place to learn about living with PD. Here is a link to articles and webinars about sleep problems associated with PD: https://davisphinneyfoundation.org/

Have you mentioned this problem to your doctor?

My neurologist diagnosed me with Parkinson's about a year ago. He said he would be putting me on Parkinson's medication in a year. So, 3 weeks ago he prescribed Carbidopa-Levodopa. Usually I start medications immediately. I always read the paperwork that comes with the medications so I am aware of possible side effects etc. However, I am very worried about this medication and have not yet started taking it. One possible side effect is falling asleep while driving with no warning--no feeling of sleepiness or tiredness prior to suddenly falling asleep. I drive a lot so am very concerned. I am supposed to take 2 tablets 3 times per day. I am almost 81 years old, female.
I found this site today and wish to learn more.

@sirronar
That warning concerned me too! I went ahead and tried it and have had no problems or issues whatsoever in the 18 months that I’ve been taking it. I’m 80 years old.

@jaybee51
Thank you. Good to know it has caused you no problems.

@sirronar Hello interesting as to why the wait for one year? I would ask about that dosage as if you are okay to wait a year your dosage sounds a bit high with no titrate. I was started with 1/2 tab 3 times per day for a week and then up to 1 tab 3 times per day which is usual starting dosage. I think your dosage should be started gradually. to get used to the med. AT my dosage I have no problems whatsoever with that sleeping side effect or any other ones. Good luck.

Hello @sirronar and welcome to the PD Support Group on Mayo Clinic Connect. I see that @jaybee51 and @kathy49 have already shared their experiences starting Carbidopa-Levodopa (C/L).

My experience is similar. My neurologist also titrated the C/L as I began. For the first week, I took 1/2 tablet once a day; the second week, I took 1/2 tablet twice a day. This continued until I reached 3 tablets a day. This method does help keep nausea and other side effects from becoming problematic. With this medication, I've never fallen asleep suddenly. However, please remember that we all react differently to medications.

As this is your first post, please feel free to share about the symptoms that led to the PD diagnosis. In my situation, balance, gait problems, and voice problems led me to the neurologist. What are your major symptoms?

Hi, Thank you for your response.
My first symptoms were balance, falls, dizziness, shaking, whole body quivering, lack of strength and agility in my left hand, unable to feel my feet etc.

@kathy49
Thank you. I will talk to my doctor about dosage.

Yes I have as many as 5 dreams a night and wake up afterwards knowing I’m dreaming but having tremors from the stress and then go to restroom and return to bed and sleep till the next time doesn’t bother me so as long as I know I’m dreaming