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Levodopa Benserazide Teva Italia

IRCCS San Raffaele Roma · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Levodopa is converted to dopamine in the brain to replace deficient neurotransmitter levels, while benserazide inhibits peripheral conversion of levodopa to prevent side effects.

Levodopa is converted to dopamine in the brain to replace deficient neurotransmitter levels, while benserazide inhibits peripheral conversion of levodopa to prevent side effects. Used for Parkinson's disease.

At a glance

Generic nameLevodopa Benserazide Teva Italia
SponsorIRCCS San Raffaele Roma
Drug classDopamine precursor with peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor
TargetAromatic amino acid decarboxylase (inhibited by benserazide); dopamine receptors (target of levodopa-derived dopamine)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaNeurology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Levodopa crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted to dopamine by aromatic amino acid decarboxylase, restoring dopamine levels in Parkinson's disease patients. Benserazide is a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor that prevents premature conversion of levodopa to dopamine outside the central nervous system, allowing more levodopa to reach the brain and reducing peripheral adverse effects like nausea and cardiovascular symptoms.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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