Benserazide is a pharmaceutical compound that functions as an aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase inhibitor. It does not enter the central nervous system.
Its Role in Parkinson’s Disease Treatment
Benserazide plays a supportive role in managing Parkinson’s disease, a condition marked by dopamine depletion in the brain. Levodopa, a dopamine precursor, is the primary medication. However, when levodopa is given alone, much of it converts to dopamine in peripheral tissues, outside the brain. This premature conversion means less levodopa reaches the brain, requiring higher doses, and causes side effects like nausea, vomiting, and cardiac arrhythmias due to increased dopamine in the bloodstream. Benserazide addresses these challenges by preventing this peripheral breakdown, allowing more levodopa to reach the brain.
How it Works with Levodopa
Benserazide works by inhibiting DOPA decarboxylase (AADC), an enzyme that converts levodopa into dopamine in peripheral tissues like the intestines, kidneys, liver, and blood. Benserazide does not cross the blood-brain barrier, so its action is confined to the periphery. Without benserazide, only 1% to 3% of levodopa may reach the brain. When combined, benserazide prevents peripheral breakdown, significantly increasing the levodopa that crosses the blood-brain barrier and becomes available in the central nervous system. This allows for a lower levodopa dose, typically reducing the required amount by about 80%, enhancing levodopa’s therapeutic effect and reducing peripheral side effects.
Important Considerations and Potential Effects
The combination of levodopa and benserazide, often referred to by brand names such as Madopar or Prolopa, is widely used for Parkinson’s management. While generally effective, patients should be aware of potential side effects and precautions. Common effects include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and diarrhea.
Other observed effects may involve involuntary movements, mood changes such as anxiety or agitation, and sleep disturbances like insomnia or sudden onset of sleep episodes. Some individuals might experience dizziness, particularly when standing up, or changes in heart rate. Report any persistent or bothersome side effects to a healthcare professional.
Precautions include informing a doctor about pre-existing conditions such as glaucoma, kidney or liver disease, heart conditions, or psychiatric illnesses. Patients should avoid driving or operating machinery if drowsy or experiencing sudden sleep episodes. A high-protein diet may reduce levodopa’s effect, and certain medications, like non-selective MAO inhibitors, can cause serious interactions.