About
Crexont (carbidopa/levodopa extended release) was approved in 2024 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for 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.) In addition to lessening motor fluctuations, Crexont may decrease total daily "off" time (when symptoms are not controlled) with fewer daily doses.
Pros
A Phase III clinical trial found improvements in “on” time with Crexont compared to immediate-release levodopa/carbidopa, and that’s with five doses of the immediate-release compared to only three of the extended-release. The new medication led to .5 hours of additional “on time” per day. The pill works by maintaining medication in the blood for longer, leading to less frequent dosing.
Cons and Complications
The most common side effects, 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 (wearing off before the next dose is due or taking a long time to start working), you may consider separating the medication from meals – taking 30 minutes before a meal, if possible. Learn more about levodopa and diet here.