levodopa inhalation

What is the most important information I should know about levodopa inhalation?

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

What is levodopa inhalation?

Levodopa inhalation is used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease that come back (OFF episodes) while you are taking another medicine called carbidopa and levodopa.

Levodopa inhalation is not to be used in place of any medicine you take daily for Parkinson's disease.

Levodopa inhalation may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using levodopa inhalation?

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other breathing disorder;
• glaucoma;
• involuntary muscle movements;
• a sleep disorder that causes daytime sleepiness;
• dizziness, nausea, or fainting spells when standing from a sitting or lying position;
• mental illness or psychosis; or
• an intense urge or compulsive behavior (such as sexual urges, binge eating, gambling, or spending money).

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.

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.

Throw away the device when your capsules run out. Always use the inhaler device that comes with each new prescription.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since levodopa inhalation is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Overdose symptoms may include muscle pain or weakness, fever, dark colored urine, little or no urination, fast heartbeats, or fainting.

What should I avoid while using levodopa inhalation?

What are the possible side effects of levodopa inhalation?

• extreme drowsiness, falling asleep suddenly (even after feeling alert);
• nausea, sweating, and a light-headed feeling (like you might pass out);
• uncontrolled muscle movements in your face (chewing, lip smacking, frowning, tongue movement, blinking or eye movement);
• confusion, paranoia, hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real);
• unusual thoughts or behavior;
• trouble sleeping, or increased dreaming;
• agitation, aggression; or
• increased sexual urges, unusual urges to gamble, or other intense urges.

Common side effects may include:

• cough;
• cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat;
• nausea; or
• sweat, urine, or saliva that appears dark in color.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect levodopa inhalation?

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

• isoniazid;
• metoclopramide;
• risperidone or other antipsychotic medication;
• iron medication, such as ferrous fumarate, ferrous gluconate, or ferrous sulfate;
• a multivitamin or mineral supplement that contains iron; or
• other medicines to treat Parkinson's disease.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect levodopa inhalation, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about levodopa inhalation.