What is l dopa?

L-dopa, also known as levodopa, is a medication used to treat Parkinson's disease. It is a precursor to dopamine, the neurotransmitter that is lacking in Parkinson's disease. L-dopa crosses the blood-brain barrier and is converted into dopamine in the brain, thereby increasing dopamine levels and improving motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement. L-dopa is often used in combination with other medications, such as carbidopa, which helps to prevent the breakdown of L-dopa before it reaches the brain, allowing for more effective treatment with fewer side effects. However, long-term use of L-dopa can lead to side effects such as dyskinesia (involuntary movements) and psychiatric symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions.