Levodopa Inhalation Powder, with the English name levodopa, is an emergency medication for the "off" - phase symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Through the mechanism of rapid absorption via the lungs, it can significantly improve motor dysfunction within 10 - 15 minutes. A single dose of 84mg can enable 90% of patients to switch from the "off" phase to the "on" phase within 30 minutes, and the average score of UPDRS - III (Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale - Part III) decreases by 15.2 points. This medication must be used with a dedicated inhaler.
How Effective is Levodopa Inhalation Powder in Treatment?
This innovative inhalable dosage form of levodopa overcomes the limitations of traditional oral medications and provides a new option for Parkinson's disease patients to quickly respond to fluctuations in motor function.
Rapid Onset of Action
After inhalation administration, the time to reach the peak plasma concentration of the drug is only 12 ± 3 minutes, which is 4 times faster than that of oral preparations. In Phase III clinical trials, patients showed improvement in motor function within 15 minutes after the first administration.
Improvement in Motor Function
Phase III trials showed that the average UPDRS - III score decreased by 15.2 points, the daily "on" phase duration was extended by 2.1 hours, and the ability to perform activities of daily living was enhanced.
Usage Limitations
Using the medication more than 5 times a day may induce dyskinesia. Long - term overuse may aggravate the end - of - dose deterioration phenomenon. It is necessary to strictly adhere to the maximum single dose of 84mg per time. The therapeutic effect depends on the combined use with carbidopa; using it alone cannot maintain a stable plasma drug concentration. This effect must be based on the continuous use of oral carbidopa/levodopa treatment.
Precautions for the Use of Levodopa Inhalation Powder
The correct method of use and risk prevention directly affect the therapeutic effect and patient safety.
Monitoring of Psychiatric Symptoms
For patients with a history of mental illness or at risk of hallucinations and delusions, special caution should be exercised when using levodopa inhalation powder. If symptoms such as hallucinations, confusion, or abnormal behaviors occur, the patient should seek medical attention immediately. Consider reducing the dose or discontinuing the medication, and adjust the treatment plan in a timely manner.
Respiratory Risks
For patients with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other chronic lung diseases, the use of levodopa inhalation powder carries a higher risk, which may induce or exacerbate bronchospasm. Such patients should undergo a rigorous medical evaluation before using the medication.
Precautions for Concurrent Drug Use
When levodopa inhalation powder is used concurrently with iron supplements, dopamine receptor antagonists, and other drugs that may affect the absorption or efficacy of levodopa, enhanced monitoring should be conducted and the dosage should be adjusted.
Dietary Precautions for Levodopa Inhalation Powder
Reasonable dietary management can optimize drug absorption and reduce adverse reactions.
Control of Protein Intake
A high - protein diet can competitively inhibit drug absorption:
Avoid eating meat and dairy products within 1 hour before and after taking the medication.
Control the total daily protein intake to 0.8g per kilogram of body weight.
Adopt the "protein redistribution" strategy (concentrate protein intake at dinner).
Management of Fluid and Fiber Intake
Drink 1.5 - 2 liters of water daily to prevent constipation.
Consume high - fiber foods in small, divided portions to avoid affecting the rate of gastric emptying.
When nausea occurs, ginger tea can be taken to relieve the symptom.
Keeping a dietary log helps identify individual influencing factors.
