Re: New to Sinemet

["Teresa V. Bohuszewicz" <tvbohus@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Your Sinemet spacing and dosage may be fine for you specifically.  Just
notice any responses from your body.  As for the protein question:  My
mama's worst symptom is rigidity and she is extremely sensitive to protein.
She takes liquid Sinemet 25/100 every two hours starting at 7pm and ending
at 9pm.  Food in her stomach, also, interferes with absorption of Sinemet in
her system.  Two-hour spacing was the best compromise for her.  Prior to her
pallidotomies, if she took Sinemet in less than two-hour increments the food
in her digestive system would interfere with her medication.  If she
increased the dosage to allow increase in the time spacing, the "on" time
would not improve.

Teresa, Daughter of Mama (57/43/38)

-----Original Message-----
From: Parkinson's Information Exchange Network
[mailto:PARKINSN@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx]On Behalf Of Rick Nuss
Sent: Sunday, December 05, 1999 9:40 AM
To: PARKINSN@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: New to Sinemet


Dear List Members:
    I was dx. two years ago with PD.  My symptoms are rigidity and
slowness on my right side.  Lately, I've noticed my fine motor skills
getting worst and occasional trouble with restless legs. I  had
an appointment this week with Neuro and he suggested that I add
Sinemet.  I have been on Selegiline for the past year and take
5mg, 2x daily.  The doctor gave me a prescription to take Sinemet
1/2 tablet - 3x daily.  (25/100).  I started three days ago on this
medication and have been taking the pills at 6hr. intervals.
7:30 a.m.
1:30 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
    Does this dosage and time spacing sound ok?
    Do I have to watch my protein intake with this medicine.? I asked my
pharmacist that question and she said only if your diet is high in
protein that it will block the absorption of the medicine.
    Any opinions from this wonderful list are appreciated.
    Carol   45/45/2