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Levodopa Inhalation Powder (LEVODOPA POWDER IN CAPSULE - ORAL INHALATION)

For Parkinson's disease.

Brand Name(s): Inbrija

Generic Name: Levodopa

Instructions

The capsule needs to be placed into your inhaler before each use. Please follow the instructions for your inhaler carefully. Do not swallow the capsule.

Keep this medicine at room temperature. Protect from moisture and high humidity.

Inhale this medicine by mouth if you start of have symptoms of Parkinson’s between your oral doses. Do not take more than 1 dose of this inhaled medicine between oral doses.

The capsule is for inhalation only. Do not swallow the capsule.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to show you how to use this medicine correctly.

Keep the medicine in the foil pouch until you are ready to use it.

Peel the foil backing and carefully remove the capsule using dry hands. Do not try to push the capsule through the foil.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Do not take the medicine more than five times during 24 hours.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting, especially after exercising or in hot weather. Be very careful when standing or sitting up quickly.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

If possible, avoid using with marijuana or other medicines that can cause dizziness or drowsiness. These include allergy/cold products, muscle relaxers, sleep aids, and pain relievers.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

This medicine may cause saliva or nasal drainage to turn a dark color. This is harmless, but may stain clothes.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

If you have any trouble using the medicine, please tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • coughing
  • dizziness
  • runny or stuffy nose
  • sore throat
  • vivid dreams or nightmares

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • severe or persistent abdominal pain
  • bleeding or bruising
  • chest pain
  • confusion
  • fainting
  • fever
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • unusual strong urges - such as increased need to shop, gamble, or have sex
  • muscle aches, spasms or abnormal movements
  • eye pain or swelling
  • rapid breathing
  • dark, tarry stool
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • change in sound of voice

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.