Rytary

The active ingredients in Rytary are carbidopa and levodopa. Together, the two active components help raise dopamine levels in the brain. This lessens early and advanced PD (Parkinson's disease) symptoms.

Levodopa is a substitute for dopamine. After being taken, levodopa enters the brain and is converted to dopamine. PD symptoms decrease as dopamine levels in the brain rise.

Dopa decarboxylase is inhibited by carbidopa. It inhibits the body's dopa decarboxylase, a protein that breaks down levodopa before it reaches the brain. More levodopa can enter the brain and convert to dopamine if this protein is blocked. This improves levodopa's capacity to alleviate Parkinson's disease symptoms.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Rytary. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Rytary:

• You must stop taking levodopa at least 12 hours before beginning Rytary if you currently take it.
• You may take Rytary with or without food. Taking Rytary with a high-fat, high-calorie meal may cause this medication to be absorbed slower than usual. To maintain a constant level of the medication in your body at all times, take your doses at regular intervals.
• Avoid crushing, chewing, breaking, or opening the capsule; instead, swallow it whole.
• Before your symptoms improve, you might need to take Rytary for a few weeks. If, after a few weeks of treatment, your symptoms do not improve, consult your physician. Additionally, let your doctor know if this medication's effects seem to fade quickly between doses.
• For those who have difficulty swallowing pills, the Rytary capsule can be opened and its contents sprinkled on applesauce or food of similar consistency.

The most common side effects of Rytary seen in clinical trials include:

• Dizziness.
• Nausea.
• Trouble sleeping.
• Drowsiness or sleepiness.
• Dry mouth.
• Constipation.
• Low blood pressure.
• Movement disorders, such as dyskinesia (uncontrolled and unusual movements).
• Increased sexual urges or other behaviors.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Rytary. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Confusion, extremely high fevers, sweating, tight muscles, breathing abnormalities, irregular pulse, and blood pressure fluctuations are withdrawal symptoms following abrupt cessation.
• Heart issues include shortness of breath, cold sweats, and chest pain that radiates to the arm, neck, or jaw.
• Suicidal ideas or actions.
• An allergic reaction to the medication.

These are not all of the possible adverse reactions of Rytary. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Rytary, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have any of the following:

• Narrow-angle glaucoma.
• Heart attack, hypertension, or heart disease.
• Kidney or liver problems.
• A hormonal (endocrine) condition.
• Respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• An intestine or peptic ulcer.
• Psychosis, mental disease, or depression.
• If you have used an MAO inhibitor within the last 14 days, avoid using Rytary. There may be a harmful medication interaction. Among the MAO inhibitors are tranylcypromine, phenelzine, isocarboxazid, linezolid, and methylene blue injection.
• Medications that antagonize the effects of dopamine used to treat psychosis may exacerbate the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and may decrease the effectiveness of Rytary.

Nonselective monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are being taken or have been taken during the last two weeks.

Within an average of one hour, patients with advanced Parkinson's disease who took Rytary had a reduction in their symptoms. Remember that every person may react differently to the drug. Therefore, it may take less or more time to work for you.

The short-acting (immediate-release) formulation of carbidopa/levodopa takes effect within about 20 to 50 minutes.

When Rytary is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Entacapone.
• Manganese.
• Rasagiline.
• Selegiline.

The dosage of Rytary (carbidopa/levodopa) will vary depending on whether you have previously used Parkinson's drugs.

Those who are new to taking levodopa

Days 1–3: The usual initial dosage is taken orally three times a day at a dose of 23.75 mg/95 mg (carbidopa/levodopa).

Day 4 and beyond: Carridogopa/levodopa dosages can be increased to 36.25 mg/145 mg orally three times a day.

Individuals moving to Rytary (carbidopa/levodopa) from immediate-release carbidopa/levodopa (Sinemet): Your prior carbidopa/levodopa regimen determines the dosage. Together, you and your doctor will determine the ideal starting dosage of Rytary (carbidopa/levodopa).

If you miss a dose of Rytary, take it as soon as you can. However, skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC is the company that manufactures Rytary.

There is no lower-cost generic available.

Before reducing the dosage or stopping Rytary, consult your doctor because doing so could have major negative effects. If you experience worsening symptoms, including fever, disorientation, or extreme muscle rigidity, contact your doctor right away.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.