Open study of sustained-release formulation of levodopa and benserazide in parkinsonian patients

The efficacy of a novel oral sustained-release preparation of levodopa/benserazide (Madopar HBS) was compared to that of previous conventional levodopa/benserazide treatment in 15 patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease and with severe fluctuations in motor response to long-term levodopa therapy. In ten patients who suffered from clear-cut "end-of-dose" deterioration, significant benefit was obtained on HBS form, while 5 patients did not respond well to the new levodopa preparation. Plasma levels of levodopa were more stable with HBS compared to conventional levodopa preparation in our patients, although doses of HBS form required for an optimal response averaged 1.48 times that of previous conventional levodopa.