CAS 59-92-7
levodopa L-dopa macuna pruriens extract
98%min EINECS 200-445-2
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Chemical Name: levodopa

L-dopa

CAS RN: 59-92-7

EINECS 200-445-2

Synonym: levodopa, Bendopa, Brocadopa, Larodopa
Molecular Formula: C9-H11-N-O4;

Molecular Weight: 197.21

 

Levodopa is used to increase dopamine levels for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and dopamine-responsive dystonia, since it is able to cross the blood-brain barrier, whereas dopamine itself cannot. Once levodopa has entered the central nervous system (CNS), it is metabolized to dopamine by aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase. Pyridoxal phosphate (vitamin B6) is a required cofactor for this decarboxylation, and may be administered along with levodopa, usually as pyridoxine.

Conversion to dopamine also occurs in the peripheral tissues, i.e., outside the brain. This may be the mechanism of the adverse effects of levodopa, listed below. It is standard clinical practice to co-administer a peripheral DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor,carbidopa or benserazide,and often a catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT) inhibitor, like entacapone, to prevent synthesis of dopamine in peripheral tissue. Co-administration of pyridoxine without a decarboxylase inhibitor accelerates the extracerebral decarboxylation to such an extent that it cancels out the effects of levodopa administration, a circumstance that historically caused great confusion.

For those taking it as a supplement, EGCG or green tea is a natural decarboxylase inhibitor.

Levodopa, co-administered with a peripheral DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor, has been tested as a possible treatment for restless leg syndrome (RLS) and has shown "no clear picture of reduced symptoms".

Appearance: White crystalline

Applications/Function: L-DOPA (3,4-dihydroxy-L-phenylalanine) is a naturally occurring amino acid found in food and made from L-Tyrosine in the human body. L-DOPA is converted into dopamine in the brain and body. It is sold as a dietary supplement and as a prescription drug in the US. In clinical use, Levodopa (INN) is administered in the management of Parkinson's disease and dopa-responsive dystonia. It is also used as a component in marine adhesives used by pelagic life.