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Which one of the following drugs is contraindicated in conjunction with therapy with levodopa/carbidopa in Parkinson's disease patients?

A. Amitriptyline
B. Fluoxetine
C. Gabapentin
D. Tranylcypromine
E. Sertraline

User Sigmus
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1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

The drug contraindicated in conjunction with levodopa/carbidopa therapy for Parkinson's disease patients is tranylcypromine, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor.

Step-by-step explanation:

In regard to Parkinson's disease treatment with levodopa/carbidopa, certain drugs are contraindicated due to the risk of causing adverse reactions or diminishing the efficacy of the therapy. Among the listed options, tranylcypromine is the drug that is contraindicated. Tranylcypromine is a member of a class of drugs known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which prevent the breakdown of monoamine neurotransmitters such as dopamine, thereby increasing their levels.

Levodopa is converted into dopamine by neurons in the brain, leading to increased dopamine neurotransmission. This can help alleviate motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease. However, when used in conjunction with MAOIs like tranylcypromine, there can be a dangerously high increase in dopamine levels leading to severe side effects such as high blood pressure crises or other cardiovascular problems.

User James Avery
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