Re: Sinemet effects with time

["Dr. Cheryl Waters" <watersc@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

You are correct in that the fluctuations that PD patients develop are
more a function of the ongoing disease process than the levodopa dose.
Sinemet CR 50/200 and two 25/100 tablets cannot be equated. The lower
dose is best used for patients who want small effects. :-)

On Sun, 20 Nov 1994, Edward Huschka wrote:

> AVFerriss - I have heard that the effects of Sinamettend to diminish
> with time . Anywhere from 5 to 25 years as the time period. At a
> recent symposium I asked the representative about this as I have
> beentaking the drug for some 10 years. His response was that sometimes
> side effects become a problem with persons who have graduated to extra
> large dosages. I personally believe that the lessening effects (if
> present) are due to the dying of the Dopamine producung cells ( The
> Substancia Nigra) which accompany the aging process. Now, I have a
> question. I was told that a single 50/200CR  pill is the same as 2
> 25/100CR pills. I agree that the dosage is equal but is the time
> effect the same? Do they dissolve at the same rate? For instance, 2
> small ice cubes melt completely in less time then one cube twice the
> size of one of the smaller ones. If this is so, does the 50/200CR
> release over a longer time period at a lesser rate. Do both variations
> furnish the same doseage under these conditions or does one level off
> at a higher peak for a shorter time span?.......EKH
>