Medication Information Leaflet
Madopar contains two medications: Levodopa and Benserazide.
This medication is used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects movement. This medication helps to improve muscle control and allows more normal body movements.
Levodopa is converted into a chemical called “dopamine” in the brain which helps to improve the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Benserazide helps Levodopa to work more effectively by slowing down the speed at which Levodopa is broken down in the body.
You can also find out about this medication by watching these videos:
They are available in English, 中文, Melayu and தமிழ்: Madopar (Levodopa and Benserazide)
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.
Inform your healthcare professional if:
The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:
You can also find out about drug allergies by watching these videos:
They are available in English, 中文, Melayu and தமிழ்: Drug Allergies
Some rare but serious side effects include:
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.
Do not take Madopar if you have taken a medication for depression called a “non-selective monoamine oxidase inhibitor” (MAOI) in the last 14 days. These medicines include isocarboxazid and phenelzine.
Iron supplements (e.g. ferrous gluconate, ferrous sulphate, iron polymaltose) may decrease the absorption of Madopar. Space Madopar at least 2 hours apart from iron supplements.
The following medication may affect the efficacy of Madopar. Discuss with your healthcare professional regarding alternative medication
Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.
Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.
Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.
If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.
This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.
Last updated on Mar 2023
This article was last reviewed on Monday, June 30, 2025