Why is this medication prescribed?

Rytary is a medication that is prescribed for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. Parkinson’s disease is characterized by the degeneration of certain nerve cells in the brain, leading to a shortage of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate movement.

Rytary is a combination of carbidopa and levodopa, two medications that work together to increase dopamine levels in the brain. Carbidopa helps prevent levodopa from being converted into dopamine outside the brain, allowing more levodopa to reach the brain and be converted into dopamine.

How should this medicine be used?

Rytary is a prescription medication, and it’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding its use. The dosing regimen may vary based on individual needs and response to treatment. Here are general guidelines on how Rytary is typically used:

• Dosage and Schedule: The dosage and schedule for Rytary are determined by your healthcare provider. The medication is usually taken orally and comes in different strengths (e.g., 23.75 mg/95 mg, 36.25 mg/145 mg, 48.75 mg/195 mg, etc.). Rytary is typically taken multiple times a day. The specific timing and frequency will depend on your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
• Timing in Relation to Meals: Protein-rich foods can interfere with the absorption of levodopa. It’s generally recommended to take Rytary at least 30 minutes before or 1 to 2 hours after meals.
• Swallowing the Capsules Whole: Rytary capsules should be swallowed whole. Do not crush, chew, or open the capsules, as this could affect the controlled-release mechanism.
• Consistent Timing: Try to take Rytary at the same times each day to maintain a consistent level of medication in your body.
• Avoid Abrupt Discontinuation: Do not stop taking Rytary suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to a worsening of Parkinson’s symptoms.
• Individualized Treatment Plan: Your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage based on your response to the medication and changes in your symptoms. Regular follow-up appointments are important for monitoring and making necessary adjustments.
• Report Changes or Side Effects: Report any changes in your symptoms or the emergence of side effects to your healthcare provider. They can help determine if any adjustments to your treatment plan are needed.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Rytary.
• Special Considerations: Follow any additional instructions or precautions provided by your healthcare provider, especially if you have specific medical conditions or concerns.

Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your experience with Rytary, and do not hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification on any aspect of your treatment. Each individual’s response to medication can vary, and adjustments may be necessary to achieve optimal symptom control.

Other uses for this medicine

Rytary is primarily prescribed for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, and its use for other conditions is not common. The combination of carbidopa and levodopa in Rytary is specifically designed to address the dopamine deficiency associated with Parkinson’s disease.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using Rytary, and it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s guidance. Here are some general precautions:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to carbidopa, levodopa, or any other ingredients in Rytary.
• Medical History: Provide a comprehensive medical history to your healthcare provider, especially if you have a history of certain conditions such as heart, liver, or kidney problems, as well as mental/mood disorders.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as Rytary may interact with other drugs.
• Narrow-Angle Glaucoma: Rytary should be used cautiously in individuals with narrow-angle glaucoma.
• Cardiovascular Effects: Exercise caution if you have a history of cardiovascular disease, as levodopa can have cardiovascular effects.
• Impulse Control/Behavioral Changes: Some people may experience changes in behavior, such as increased gambling urges or other intense urges. Report any unusual changes to your healthcare provider.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their healthcare provider before using Rytary, as its safety during pregnancy and lactation is not well established.
• Withdrawal Effects: Do not stop taking Rytary suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider, as abrupt discontinuation may lead to withdrawal effects.
• Dietary Considerations: Protein-rich foods may interfere with the absorption of levodopa. It’s generally recommended to take Rytary at least 30 minutes before or 1 to 2 hours after meals.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the use of Rytary and report any side effects or concerns promptly. Regular follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring your response to the medication and adjusting the dosage as needed.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Timing of Meals:

• Protein-rich foods may interfere with the absorption of levodopa. Take Rytary at least 30 minutes before or 1 to 2 hours after meals.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If You Miss a Dose: If you forget to take a dose of Rytary, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do Not Double Dose: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Taking more than the prescribed amount could lead to increased side effects.
• Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If you are unsure about what to do after missing a dose, or if you frequently forget doses, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Rytary, like any medication, can cause side effects. It’s important to be aware of potential side effects and promptly report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and the severity can vary. Common side effects of Rytary may include:

• Nausea: Nausea is a common side effect, especially when starting the medication. Taking Rytary with food or adjusting the timing of meals may help alleviate this symptom.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Changes in blood pressure can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness. Getting up slowly from a sitting or lying position may help minimize this effect.
• Insomnia or Sleep Disturbances: Rytary can affect sleep patterns, leading to insomnia or other sleep disturbances. Inform your healthcare provider if this becomes problematic.
• Hallucinations: Some individuals may experience hallucinations or other changes in perception. If you notice any unusual thoughts or behaviors, report them to your healthcare provider.
• Abnormal Movements (Dyskinesias): In some cases, Rytary may cause involuntary, abnormal movements. Adjustments to the dosage may be necessary to manage these effects.
• Orthostatic Hypotension: Rytary can cause a drop in blood pressure upon standing, leading to dizziness. Changing positions slowly may help alleviate this symptom.
• Impulse Control/Behavioral Changes: There have been reports of impulse control issues, including gambling urges and other intense urges. If you experience unusual changes in behavior, inform your healthcare provider.
• Worsening of Depression or Suicidal Thoughts: Some individuals may experience changes in mood, including worsening depression or suicidal thoughts. Report any significant mood changes to your healthcare provider.
• Peripheral Edema: Swelling in the extremities (peripheral edema) may occur in some individuals. If you notice significant swelling, notify your healthcare provider.
• Uncontrolled Movements (Dyskinesia): Uncontrolled, involuntary movements may occur, especially with long-term use or higher doses.

These are not the only possible side effects, and individual responses can vary. It’s crucial to discuss any concerns or changes in symptoms with your healthcare provider. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, seek medical attention promptly.

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and there may be other potential adverse reactions associated with Rytary. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized information and guidance based on your specific health status and medical history.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Rytary:

• Storage:
  • Store Rytary at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
  • Keep the medication in its original container or packaging to protect it from light.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused or expired Rytary in accordance with local regulations and guidelines.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into drains unless instructed to do so. Check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for proper disposal instructions.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention by calling your local poison control center or emergency services.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Overdose symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, extreme drowsiness, and difficulty breathing.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Regularly attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and adjustments to your treatment plan.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform other healthcare providers, including dentists and surgeons, about your use of Rytary. It’s important for them to be aware of all the medications you are taking.
• Avoid Abrupt Discontinuation: Do not stop taking Rytary suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can lead to a worsening of symptoms.
• Communication with Healthcare Provider: Report any new or worsening symptoms, side effects, or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Rytary may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Blood Pressure Monitoring: Pay attention to changes in blood pressure, especially when moving from a sitting to a standing position.
• Avoid High-Protein Meals: Protein-rich meals can interfere with the absorption of levodopa. Follow dietary instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Alcohol and Other Central Nervous System Depressants: Limit alcohol intake and avoid other medications that may cause drowsiness or interact with Rytary. Consult your healthcare provider if you have questions about specific substances.
• Inform Emergency Medical Personnel: In case of emergency or if you are unable to communicate, make sure that emergency medical personnel are aware of your Parkinson’s disease and the medications you are taking, including Rytary.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, and do not hesitate to contact them with any questions or concerns. Individual responses to medication can vary, and your healthcare provider is the best resource for personalized guidance based on your specific health status.