Results of long-term treatment with controlled-release levodopa/carbidopa (Sinemet CR)

35 Parkinson's disease patients with motor response fluctuations (RF) participated in controlled clinical trials comparing Sinemet CR to Standard Sinemet (STD) at our institutions. 13 of 25 eligible patients continued to two years (the longest possible follow-up from the second study), and 5 of 11 have continued taking CR up to 4 years. At the end of both two and four years, patients were taking significantly fewer medication doses, with a significantly longer interdose interval, and up to two years, experienced fewer "off" periods than when on Standard Sinemet (STD) alone. Most patients required STD at at least one dose each day to hasten to onset of antiparkinson effect. Sinemet CR is a useful adjunct in the long-term management of motor response fluctuations in Parkinson's disease.