Question

A primary health care provider initiates carbidopa/levodopa therapy for the client with Parkinson's disease. A few days after the client starts the medication, the client complains of nausea and vomiting. What should the nurse tell the client regarding how to avoid side effects when taking this combination medication?

A. Take the medication with a high-protein meal.
B. Take the medication on an empty stomach.
C. Take the medication with a glass of milk.
D. Take the medication with a full meal.

Answer 1

To minimize side effects like nausea when taking carbidopa/levodopa, the client should take it with a glass of milk or a light snack but avoid high-protein meals and take it on an empty stomach.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a client with Parkinson's disease complains of nausea and vomiting after starting carbidopa/levodopa therapy, the nurse should advise the client to take the medication with a glass of milk or a light snack to help ease these side effects.

It is important not to take the medication with a high-protein meal, as protein can interfere with the absorption of levodopa into the bloodstream, leading to less effective treatment. Taking the medication on an empty stomach can increase nausea, a common side effect. Consequently, a full meal is not recommended either, as this could also affect drug absorption. The goal is to find a balance that minimizes side effects while ensuring the medication's efficacy.

Adjusting the timing of medication to avoid these side effects should be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as individual responses to medication can vary.