Syndopa CR Tablet 10'S

Introduction About SYNDOPA CR TABLET

Syndopa CR Tablet is a controlled-release medicine formulated to support individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and related movement disorders. Parkinson’s occurs due to reduced levels of dopamine in the brain, leading to tremors, stiffness, slow body movements, and difficulty with balance. By restoring dopamine activity, it helps improve daily mobility and reduces fluctuations in symptoms, making routine tasks more manageable for patients.

This medicine contains a combination of Levodopa and Carbidopa. Levodopa is converted into dopamine in the brain, directly addressing the chemical deficiency, while Carbidopa prevents its premature breakdown, allowing more levodopa to reach the brain. The controlled-release (CR) formulation ensures a gradual and sustained effect, making it suitable for patients who need steady symptom relief throughout the day. It is generally prescribed for adults, especially those requiring long-term management of Parkinson’s symptoms.

Syndopa CR should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor, usually at the same time each day. The tablet must be swallowed whole with water and not crushed or chewed. It can be taken with or just after meals to reduce nausea, though very high-protein foods may interfere with absorption. Patients must attend regular follow-ups so the doctor can adjust the dose according to response. Precautions are essential in people with heart disease, kidney or liver conditions, mental health issues, or a history of low blood pressure.

This medicine is not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding unless clearly prescribed by a doctor. Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, and involuntary movements. In rare cases, mood changes, irregular heartbeat, or sudden sleep attacks may occur, requiring medical attention. Patients should avoid alcohol, driving, or operating heavy machines while on treatment. By carefully following dosage instructions and safety advice, Syndopa CR can significantly improve quality of life for people coping with Parkinson’s disease.

Uses Of SYNDOPA CR TABLET

• Used to improve the signs of Parkinsonism

Benefits of SYNDOPA CR TABLET

Syndopa CR tablet for Parkinson’s disease

Syndopa CR Tablet is commonly prescribed to help manage the movement-related symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. This condition occurs when the brain produces less dopamine, a chemical that controls smooth and coordinated muscle movements. Low dopamine levels lead to problems such as stiffness, tremors, slow movement, and difficulty with balance.

Syndopa CR contains Levodopa and Carbidopa. Levodopa is converted into dopamine in the brain, helping restore normal movement, while Carbidopa ensures that more Levodopa reaches the brain by preventing its early breakdown. The CR (Controlled Release) form provides a steady release of the medicine, which helps maintain stable symptom relief throughout the day.

How SYNDOPA CR TABLET Works

Syndopa CR Tablet contains two active ingredients – Levodopa and Carbidopa – that work together to improve movement problems in Parkinson’s disease.

• Levodopa is a chemical that gets converted into dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a natural substance that helps control body movements, but its levels are low in people with Parkinson’s disease. By increasing dopamine, levodopa helps reduce stiffness, tremors, and slow movements.
• Carbidopa prevents levodopa from breaking down too early in the bloodstream, ensuring that more levodopa reaches the brain. This enhances the effect of levodopa and reduces side effects like nausea.
• The CR (Controlled Release) formulation allows the medicine to be released slowly over time, providing more stable dopamine levels and longer-lasting symptom control.

How to use SYNDOPA CR TABLET

How to take Syndopa CR tablet

• Take Syndopa CR Tablet exactly as advised by your doctor; do not change the dose yourself.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; avoid crushing, breaking, or chewing it.
• You may take it with or just after food to reduce stomach upset but avoid very heavy or high-protein meals around the same time.
• Try to take the medicine at the same time each day for best results.
• If you forget a dose, take it when you remember. Skip it if it’s almost time for your next dose never double the dose.
• Do not stop the medicine suddenly without your doctor’s advice, as this may worsen symptoms.

What if I forgot to take SYNDOPA CR TABLET

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed tablet, as this may increase the risk of side effects.
• Try to take your medicine at the same time each day to reduce the chance of missing doses.
• Keep a medication diary or set reminders to help you remember your doses consistently.
• If you frequently forget doses, inform your doctor they may adjust your schedule or suggest tools to improve adherence.

Overdose

If you or anyone else accidentally take too much of Syndopa CR tablet, contact your doctor immediately or go to a hospital straight away.

Side Effects Of SYNDOPA CR TABLET

Common side effects of Syndopa CR tablet

• abnormal body movements (dyskinesia, chorea, dystonia)
• nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, bitter taste
• loss of appetite
• low blood pressure while standing up from sitting or lying position (orthostatic hypotension), fainting
• confusion, dizziness, nightmares, drowsiness, tiredness
• Difficulty in sleeping
• feeling euphoria (an extremely strong feeling of happiness)

When to Seek Medical Attention?

Stop taking Syndopa CR tablet and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects:

• signs of allergic reactions (such as skin rash, itching, swelling
  of your face, lips, tongue or throat, which may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• chest pain, uneven heartbeat or palpitations
• signs of bleeding in the stomach which may be shown as blood in faeces or darkened faeces
• signs of low blood counts (such as pale skin, fever, tiredness, sore throat or mild bruising and prolonged bleeding after injury)
• signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (muscle stiffness with high fever, sweating, increased salivation, inability to sit still, impaired consciousness)
• mental changes including hallucinations, delusions and depression
• fits (convulsions)

How To Manage Side Effects

Dry Mouth

• Stay hydrated: Sip water frequently throughout the day to keep your mouth moist.
• Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies: This helps stimulate saliva flow.
• Eat water-rich foods: Include fruits like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges to add natural moisture.
• Rinse with salt water or baking soda solution: This can freshen your mouth and relieve dryness.
• Avoid caffeine and smoking: These can make dry mouth worse.
• Use a humidifier at night: Adding moisture to the air helps if your mouth feels dry while sleeping.
• Try aloe vera juice (unsweetened): Small sips may soothe and keep the mouth hydrated naturally.

Loss Of Appetite

• Ginger: Drinking ginger tea or chewing a small piece of fresh ginger with honey before meals can naturally boost appetite.
• Lemon water: A glass of warm water with lemon and a pinch of salt can refresh taste buds and stimulate hunger.
• Small, frequent meals: Instead of 2–3 big meals, eat 5–6 small portions throughout the day to gradually improve appetite.
• Spices and herbs: Cumin, black pepper, coriander, and mint in meals can aid digestion and enhance the desire to eat.
• Fenugreek seeds: Soak overnight and consume in the morning; they may help regulate digestion and hunger.
• Clove tea or cardamom: Mild spices like clove or cardamom tea can refresh the palate and encourage food intake.
• Physical activity: Light exercise like walking or yoga increases metabolism and can make you feel hungrier.
• Stay hydrated: Drink enough water, but avoid over-drinking just before meals, as it may make you feel full.

Warning & Precautions

Pregnancy

Contraindicated

Syndopa CR tablet is not advised for use during pregnancy or in women who suspect they may be pregnant. Always consult your doctor before taking this medicine. 

Breastfeeding

Contraindicated

This medicine is not recommended for women who are breastfeeding. Speak with your doctor before use.

Driving and Using Machines

Use with Caution

Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking Syndopa CR tablet, as it may cause sudden sleep episodes or excessive drowsiness.

Alcohol

Contraindicated

Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine, as it may increase dizziness or drowsiness.

Kidney

Use with Caution

Patients with a history of kidney problems should use Syndopa CR tablet cautiously. Consult your doctor for advice before starting the medicine. 

Liver

Use with Caution

If you have or had liver conditions, take this medicine with caution and only under medical guidance.

Allergy

Contraindicated

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to Levodopa, Carbidopa, or any other ingredients in this medicine.

Heart Disease

Use with Caution

Use Syndopa CR tablet with caution if you have a history of heart conditions such as heart attack, irregular heartbeat, circulation issues, or breathing difficulties. Always consult your doctor before use. 

Other Warnings for SYNDOPA CR TABLET

Before taking Syndopa CR tablet, inform your physician if you:

• have a history of fits (epilepsy)
• have had an ulcer in the stomach
• have vomited blood
• have any hormonal problems
• have had depression or any other similar mental problems
• have chronic wide-angle glaucoma (a painless eye condition that can affect your vision)
• feel sleepy or having sudden sleep attacks (Ex. Narcolepsy)
• are due to have a surgery
• are due to have a blood/urine test

Who should not take [GBNKEYWORD

Syndopa CR tablet is not recommended for use in patients who:

• have ever had any forms of skin cancer
• have any unusual moles in the skin that has not yet been examined by the doctor
• have narrow-angle glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
• have a severe mental disorder (Ex. severe panic disorder, psychosis, severe depression, bipolar disorder)

Safety Advice

• Take SYNDOPA CR Tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dose or stop suddenly without medical advice.
• Take it at the same time each day to maintain steady levels in your body.
• Keep your doctor informed about all other medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements you are taking to avoid interactions.
• Attend regular medical check-ups, as your doctor may monitor your blood pressure, liver, and kidney function during therapy.

Diet and Lifestyle Advice

• Eat a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support overall health.
• Limit high-protein meals (like excessive meat, fish, or cheese) around the time of taking the medicine, as protein may affect absorption.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and help ease constipation.
• Include fibre-rich foods such as oats, leafy greens, and fresh fruits to maintain healthy digestion.
• Take the medicine at the same time daily, preferably with or just after meals to reduce nausea.
• Practice regular, light-to-moderate exercise (like walking or stretching) to maintain mobility and muscle strength, after consulting your doctor.
• Get enough rest and sleep, as fatigue can worsen Parkinson’s symptoms.
• Avoid sudden changes in posture (like standing up too quickly) to reduce the risk of dizziness or fainting.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation, breathing exercises, or yoga.

1. Syndopa CR Tablet and Syndopa Plus Tablet in a patient

2. Syndopa CR and Madopar for Parkinson’s symptom management

3. Syndopa CR and Syndopa 110 for long-term use

Drug - Drug interaction

1. Antihypertensive Medicines (for high blood pressure)

• Interaction: Syndopa CR may increase the risk of low blood pressure when combined with antihypertensives.
• Management: Monitor blood pressure regularly; your doctor may adjust the dose of either medicine.

2. Antidepressants (MAO inhibitors like Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine)

• Interaction: Can cause dangerous increases in blood pressure or other severe reactions when used together.
• Management: Avoid using MAO inhibitors within 14 days of Syndopa CR; safer alternatives may be prescribed.

3. Antipsychotics (e.g., Haloperidol, Risperidone, Chlorpromazine)

• Interaction: These can reduce the effect of levodopa and worsen Parkinson’s symptoms.
• Management: Doctor may adjust the dose of Syndopa CR or consider alternative medicines for psychiatric symptoms.

4. Iron Supplements (Ferrous salts)

• Interaction: Iron can reduce the absorption of levodopa, making the medicine less effective.
• Management: Take iron supplements and Syndopa CR at least 2–3 hours apart.

5. Anti-seizure Medicines (Phenytoin, Carbamazepine)

• Interaction: May reduce the effectiveness of Syndopa CR in controlling Parkinson’s symptoms.
• Management: Close monitoring of symptoms; dose adjustments may be needed.

6. Antibiotics (e.g., Isoniazid)

• Interaction: Can interfere with the effect of levodopa.
• Management: Doctor may monitor Parkinson’s symptoms closely and adjust therapy.

7. Other Parkinson’s Medicines (Selegiline, Entacapone)

• Interaction: May increase side effects like dizziness, confusion, or low blood pressure.
• Management: Combination may be used under strict medical supervision with dose adjustment.

Drug - Food interaction

1. High-Protein Foods (meat, fish, eggs, cheese, beans)

• Interaction: Protein competes with levodopa for absorption in the intestine and transport to the brain. This may reduce the effect of the medicine.
• Management: Take the tablet at the same time daily, and if needed, spread protein intake evenly throughout the day instead of eating a very high-protein meal at once.

2. Iron-Rich Foods or Iron Supplements (spinach, red meat, fortified cereals)

• Interaction: Iron can bind with levodopa in the stomach, reducing its absorption.
• Management: Take Syndopa CR and iron-rich foods/supplements at different times, keeping a 2–3-hour gap.

3. High-Fat or Heavy Meals

• Interaction: May slow down the absorption of the tablet, delaying its effect.
• Management: Prefer light, balanced meals around the time of taking medicine to ensure steady absorption.

4. Caffeinated Drinks (coffee, strong tea, energy drinks)

• Interaction: Excess caffeine may increase side effects like jitteriness, rapid heartbeat, or insomnia when combined with levodopa.
• Management: Limit caffeine intake while on treatment.

Synopsis

More Information

• Keep Syndopa CR tablet out of reach of children
• Store at room temperature

FAQs About SYNDOPA CR TABLET

References

1. KD. Tripathi. Drugs acting on central nervous system. Antiparkinsonian drugs. Essentials of medical pharmacology. 8th Edition. 2019. Page – 452-457.

2. Gerald G. Briggs and Roger K. Freeman. A reference guide to fetal and neonatal risk: Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation. Tenth Edition. 2015. Page – 657 & 2455.

3. Dr. Rebecca Gilbert. The many variations of carbidopa/levodopa – the mainstay of Parkinson’s disease treatment. American Parkinson Disease Association. [Revised in 8th October 2024]. [Accessed on 8th September 2025] 

4. Masahiro Nomoto, Masahiro Nagai, Rina Ando, Yoshifumi Kagamiishi, Koji Yano, Shigeto Saito, Atsushi Takeda. Pharmacokinetics and safety/efficacy of levodopa pro-drug ONO-2160/carbidopa for Parkinson's disease. Sciencedirect.com. [Revised in December 2018]. [Accessed on 8th September 2025] 

5. Fair-Med Healthcare GmbH. Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA). [Revised in 4th March 2016] [Accessed on 8th September 2025] 

6. Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd. Tidomet Forte (Carbidopa 25mg and Levodopa 250 mg tablets). [Accessed on 8th September 2025] 

Author Details

Written By Dr. Karthikeyan Rajagopal - M.Pharm (Pharmacology)

Reviewed For Accuracy By Dr. Sankara Babu Gorle - MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Last updated on 09 Sep 2025 | 09:32 AM(IST)