Levodopa stability in solution: time course, environmental effects, and practical recommendations for clinical use

Mov Disord. 1996 Jan;11(1):24-6. doi: 10.1002/mds.870110106.

Abstract

We defined the temporal stability characteristics of levodopa/carbidopa (LD/CD) solution, and determined the effects of temperature, ascorbate, and light on LD stability over 7 days. At room temperature and without ascorbate, LD levels significantly declined by 48 h. Ascorbate prolonged stability to 72 h. Refrigeration and freezing prevented a significant decline in LD levels for the full 7 days. Light or darkness had no effect on stability. LD/CD solution, if made daily, requires no special handling and longer stability is maintained with ascorbate, refrigeration, or freezing.

MeSH terms

  • Antiparkinson Agents / chemistry*
  • Antiparkinson Agents / therapeutic use
  • Ascorbic Acid
  • Carbidopa / chemistry*
  • Carbidopa / therapeutic use
  • Drug Combinations
  • Drug Stability
  • Drug Storage
  • Humans
  • Levodopa / chemistry*
  • Levodopa / therapeutic use
  • Light
  • Parkinson Disease / drug therapy
  • Temperature
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Antiparkinson Agents
  • Drug Combinations
  • carbidopa, levodopa drug combination
  • Levodopa
  • Carbidopa
  • Ascorbic Acid