How should I use levodopa inhalation?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Levodopa inhalation is for use only in people who are currently taking carbidopa and levodopa. Do not stop taking your daily Parkinson's medications or change your dosing schedule without your doctor's advice.
For best results, use levodopa inhalation when an "off episode" begins (when your Parkinson's symptoms start to return). Do not use levodopa inhalation more than 5 times per day.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.
Levodopa inhalation (Inbrija) is a powder that comes with a special inhaler device and blister packs containing capsules of the medicine. You will load 2 capsules (one at a time) into the inhaler device each time you use the medicine. Pushing the handle of the device onto the mouthpiece will pierce the capsule and release the medicine into the inhaler.
Do not swallow a levodopa inhalation capsule. It is for use only in the Inbrija inhaler device.
This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using levodopa inhalation.
Do not stop using levodopa inhalation suddenly after long-term regular use, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms (fever, confusion, muscle stiffness, changes in breathing and heart rate). Ask your doctor how to safely stop using this medicine.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep each capsule in the blister pack until you ready to load the inhaler device. Do not store capsules inside the device.
Throw away the device when your capsules run out. Always use the inhaler device that comes with each new prescription.