About
Crexont (carbidopa/levodopa extended release) was approved in 2024 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. It contains a new formulation of immediate- and extended-release levodopa with carbidopa. (Levodopa is converted in the brain to dopamine, the chemical that goes missing in Parkinson's; carbidopa helps levodopa get into the brain and decreases side effects.) Crexont can ease motor symptoms (tremor, slowness and stiffness) and potentially give more “on” time (when symptoms are controlled) with fewer daily doses. The pill maintains medication in the blood longer, leading to less frequent dosing.
Pros
A Phase III clinical trial found that, compared to immediate-release levodopa/carbidopa, Crexont gave an additional 0.5 hours more “on” time, and that was with three doses versus an average of five doses of immediate-release levodopa. An analysis of data following the clinical trial suggested that each individual dose of Crexont may last, on average, about 1.5 hours longer than a dose of immediate-release levodopa.
Cons and Complications
The most common side effects, as seen in clinical trials, include nausea, anxiety and dizziness. Dyskinesia (involuntary, uncontrolled movements) also may occur, particularly during the period of converting to this medication from immediate-release levodopa.
As with other oral levodopa drugs, Crexont can compete with dietary protein for absorption. If the medication does not work optimally, such aswearing off before the next dose is due or taking a long time to start working, you may consider separating the medication from meals. Typically doctors recommend you take 30 minutes before or 60 minutes after a meal, if possible. Learn more about levodopa and diet here.