Foscarbidopa

A prodrug of carbidopa

Foscarbidopa
INN
Drug class
Routes of administration
Pregnancy category
Bioavailability
Metabolism
Elimination half-life
Excretion
Legal status
CAS Number
PubChem
DrugBank
ChemSpider
KEGG

Foscarbidopa is a prodrug of carbidopa, which is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. It is designed to improve the bioavailability of carbidopa by enhancing its absorption and reducing its peripheral metabolism.

Mechanism of Action

Foscarbidopa is converted into carbidopa in the body. Carbidopa is a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor that prevents the conversion of levodopa to dopamine outside the central nervous system. This allows more levodopa to reach the brain, where it can be converted to dopamine, thus alleviating the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Pharmacokinetics

Foscarbidopa is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and is rapidly converted to carbidopa. The conversion process involves enzymatic hydrolysis, which releases carbidopa into the bloodstream. This prodrug approach helps in overcoming the poor absorption and rapid metabolism associated with direct carbidopa administration.

Clinical Use

Foscarbidopa is primarily used in combination with levodopa for the management of Parkinson's disease. By inhibiting peripheral decarboxylation of levodopa, it enhances the availability of levodopa for conversion to dopamine in the brain, thereby improving motor function in patients.

Side Effects

The side effects of foscarbidopa are similar to those of carbidopa and may include nausea, dizziness, headache, and orthostatic hypotension. As with any medication affecting dopamine levels, there is a risk of dyskinesia and other movement disorders.

Development and Research

Foscarbidopa is part of ongoing research to improve the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Studies are focused on optimizing its formulation and delivery to maximize therapeutic benefits while minimizing side effects.

Related pages

• Carbidopa
• Levodopa
• Parkinson's disease
• Dopamine