Neurology and Epilepsy

Parkinson's, epilepsy and vertigo medicines we stock

Most of this category treats Parkinson's disease. Levodopa with carbidopa replaces the dopamine the condition depletes and is stocked in a controlled-release form. Entacapone extends each levodopa dose. Rasagiline and selegiline slow the breakdown of dopamine, ropinirole and piribedil mimic it directly, and amantadine helps with movement and with the involuntary movements that longer treatment can bring. For epilepsy there is oxcarbazepine, at 300MG and 600MG, and extended-release divalproex. Betahistine and cinnarizine are used for vertigo and inner-ear balance problems.

Timing matters in Parkinson's

Parkinson's medicines are taken at set times, and keeping to those times often matters as much as the dose, because symptoms return as each dose wears off. A high-protein meal can reduce how well levodopa is absorbed. Controlled-release tablets are swallowed whole and are not interchangeable milligram for milligram with standard ones.

Epilepsy medicines are never stopped suddenly

Stopping or abruptly cutting an anti-epileptic can trigger seizures, so changes are made gradually and under supervision. Oxcarbazepine can lower sodium levels and makes hormonal contraception less reliable. Divalproex is avoided in pregnancy unless there is no alternative, because of a serious risk to the unborn child.

Interactions and side effects worth knowing

Rasagiline and selegiline interact with a number of antidepressants and with some cough and cold remedies, so check before combining them. Dopamine agonists such as ropinirole can cause sudden sleepiness and, in some people, impulse control problems such as compulsive gambling or shopping, which are worth reporting. Every listing shows the molecule, strength and release type, with the guaranteed minimum expiry date. All stock ships from India through licensed distributors.