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Sinemet (comparator)

XenoPort, Inc. · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Sinemet combines levodopa (a dopamine precursor) with carbidopa (a decarboxylase inhibitor) to increase dopamine levels in the brain while preventing peripheral conversion of levodopa.

Sinemet combines levodopa (a dopamine precursor) with carbidopa (a decarboxylase inhibitor) to increase dopamine levels in the brain while preventing peripheral conversion of levodopa. Used for Parkinson's disease, Parkinsonism secondary to carbon monoxide poisoning or manganese intoxication.

At a glance

Generic nameSinemet (comparator)
Also known asLong acting levodopa, Sinemet CR 250' (Levodopa 200mg, and 50mg carbidopa), Levodopa, IR CD-LD Tablets, carbidopa/levodopa
SponsorXenoPort, Inc.
Drug classDopamine precursor with peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor
TargetAromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC); dopaminergic system
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaNeurology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Levodopa is converted to dopamine in the brain to replace depleted dopamine in Parkinson's disease. Carbidopa inhibits the enzyme aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase in the periphery, preventing premature conversion of levodopa to dopamine outside the brain, thereby increasing the amount of levodopa available to cross the blood-brain barrier and reducing peripheral side effects.

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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