Sinemet CR
Overview
- About Sinemet CR
Pronounced: SIN-uh-met see-are
Generic ingredients: Carbidopa, Levodopa
Why is Sinemet CR prescribed?
Sinemet CR is a controlled-release tablet that may be given to help relieve the muscle stiffness, tremor, and weakness caused by Parkinson's disease. It may also be given to relieve Parkinson-like symptoms caused by encephalitis (brain fever), carbon monoxide poisoning, or manganese poisoning.
Sinemet CR contains two drugs, carbidopa and levodopa. The drug that actually produces the anti-Parkinson's effect is levodopa. Carbidopa prevents vitamin B 6 from destroying levodopa, thus allowing levodopa to work more efficiently.
Parkinson's drugs such as Sinemet CR relieve the symptoms of the disease, but are not a permanent cure.
Most important fact about Sinemet CR
There is also a regular, non-controlled-release form of this medication, which is called Sinemet. Over a period of hours, Sinemet CR, the controlled-release form, gives a smoother release of the drug than regular Sinemet. If you have been taking regular Sinemet, be aware that you may need a somewhat higher dosage of Sinemet CR to get the same degree of relief. Your first morning dose of Sinemet CR may take as much as an hour longer to start working than your first morning dose of regular Sinemet.
How should you take Sinemet CR?
Take Sinemet CR after meals, rather than before or between meals. Swallow the tablets whole without chewing or crushing them.
Sinemet CR releases its ingredients slowly over a period of 4 to 6 hours. It is important to follow a careful schedule, taking your doses at the same time every day.
You should not change the prescribed dosage or add another product for Parkinson's disease without first consulting your doctor.
Sinemet CR works best when there is a constant amount in the blood. Try not to miss any doses, and take them at evenly spaced intervals day and night.
--If you miss a dose...
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
