| Mechanism | Crosses blood-brain barrier and converted by enzyme dopa decarboxylase Replaces deficient dopamine in basal ganglia |
| Typical Dose | Too complex |
| Indications | Idiopathic PD Parkinsonism |
| Contra-indications | Closed angle glaucoma Drug induced Parkinsonism |
| Side-effects | Common: anorexia, nausea, vomiting, abdo pain, insomnia, agitation, postural hypotension, discolouration of urine/body fluids Rarely: psychiatric symptoms - confusion hallucinations, Depression |
| Interactions | **Anaesthetics:**↑ risk of dysrhythmias MAOIs: risk of HTN crisis (withdraw L-dopa 2 weeks prior to starting MAOIs) Neuroleptics: block dopamine |
| Elimination | |
| Additional Notes | Dopamine itself is not used as it cannot cross the BBB |