Products
Benserazide is commercially available in fixed combination with levodopa in tablet and capsule form (Madopar). It has been approved in many countries since 1973.
Structure and properties
Benserazide (C10H15N3O5, Mr = 257.2 g/mol) is a racemate. It exists as benserazide hydrochloride, a white to yellowish-white or orange-white crystalline powder that is readily soluble in water.
Effects
Benserazide is a peripherally acting decarboxylase inhibitor, which inhibits the breakdown of levodopa to dopamine in the periphery. This increases the amount of dopamine available at the site of action in the central nervous system and decreases the risk of adverse effects. Benserazide does not cross the blood–brain barrier, unlike levodopa.
Indications
In combination with levodopa for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and restless legs syndrome.
