Effects of dietary factors on levodopa pharmacokinetics

Abstract

lmportance of the fíeld: Levodopa is the most effective treatment for Parkinson's disease, so it is important to understand the pharmacokinetic an d pharmacodynamic features of this drug. Considering the pharmaco­ kinetics of levodopa and the factors that can modify it are essential for the clinician when prescribing levodopa products in order to maximize their therapeutic effects. · Areas covered in thís review: This pa per reviews the studies carried out eva luating the interaction between levodopa and dietary factors. What the reader will gain: The reader will gain a greater understanding of the different dietary factors that can affect levodopa pharmacokinetics and, thus, the therapeutic response that is obtained with this drug in several situations. Take home message: An understanding of the pharmacokinetics of any drug is crucial for the establishment of its optima! therapeutic regimen, but this assumes a special importance with levodopa, due to its extensive presystemic rnetabolism, rapid absorption in the proximal small intestine and short plasma ha lf-life. Major problems with levodopa treatment are the fluctuations in clin­ ical response experienced in patients with advanced Parkinson's disease that sometimes are related to the peripheral pharmacokinetics of levodopa. Stu­ dies of levodopa interactions are very important to improve patient response to this drug.