tcsc1945 L-DOPA

L-DOPA is a natural form of DOPA used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. L-DOPA is the precursor of dopamine and product of tyrosine hydroxylase.

Target: Dopamine Receptor

L-DOPA (L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine) is a chemical that is made and used as part of the normal biology of humans, some animals and plants. Some animals and humans make it via biosynthesis from the amino acid L-tyrosine. L-DOPA is the precursor to the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine (noradrenaline), and epinephrine collectively known as catecholamines. L-DOPA can be manufactured and in its pure form is sold as apsychoactive drug with the INN levodopa; trade names include Sinemet, Parcopa, Atamet, Stalevo, Madopar, Prolopa, etc. As a drug it is used in the clinical treatment of Parkinson's disease and dopamine-responsive dystonia.

L-DOPA crosses the protective blood-brain barrier, whereas dopamine itself cannot. Thus, L-DOPA is used to increase dopamine concentrations in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and dopamine-responsive dystonia. This treatment was made practical and proven clinically by George Cotzias and his coworkers, for which they won the 1969 Lasker Prize. In addition, L-DOPA, co-administered with a peripheral DDCI, has been investigated as a potential treatment for restless leg syndrome. However, studieshave demonstrated "no clear picture of reduced symptoms".