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Co-beneldopa is a type of generic (unbranded) levodopa medication. Madopar is the brand name for co-beneldopa.

It contains two ingredients, levodopa and benserazide. The benserazide ingredient helps levodopa get in to the brain where it can be converted to dopamine.

The dose of co-beneldopa (Madopar) is expressed with the levodopa content first and

then the benserazide content. For example, Madopar 50/12.5 contains 50 mg levodopa and 12.5 mg of benserazride.

Below we have included the different forms of co-beneldopa (Madopar) medication and some key points on taking them.



The most recent and complete information on your specific drug will be on your patient information leaflet that comes with your medication packet. Always read it carefully before you start your treatment.

For detailed information you should follow the advice of your specialist or Parkinson’s nurse about how to take co-beneldopa (Madopar) so that it works well for your Parkinson’s.

Immediate-release co-beneldopa capsules (Madopar capsules)

Taking this medication with a meal, or shortly after it, will mean you are less likely to experience any nausea. If you don’t experience nausea it may be beneficial to take your capsules 30 – 40 minutes before a meal to help your medication work.

Controlled release co-beneldopa capsules (Madopar CR capsules)

Controlled release co-beneldopa capsules (Madopar CR) let the levodopa enter your body slowly instead of all at once. They are particularly helpful if they are taken before going to bed to reduce stiffness during the night.

Controlled release co-beneldopa capsules (Madopar CR capsules) can also help to reduce one of the side effects of levodopa medication - involuntary movements (dyskinesia).

You should take the capsules with a good drink of water. Don’t break, crush or chew them.

Be aware that you should avoid taking drugs for heartburn, indigestion or an upset stomach in the two hours before and after you take controlled-release co-beneldopa (Madopar) medication. This is because they can make it more difficult for your body to absorb your controlled-release capsules.

Co-beneldopa dispersible tablets (Madopar tablets)

These dispersible tablets can be mixed with water to make a drink. It takes effect more quickly than capsules because it doesn’t need to be broken down in your stomach to release the active ingredient. It can also be used if you have trouble swallowing tablets or capsules.

You should take these tablets with water or fruit squash.

Taking this medication with a meal or after it will mean you are less likely to experience any nausea.

Co-beneldopa dispersible tablets (Madopar tablets) are useful if you experience slowness of movement or the ‘on/off’ effect.