It’s ok to eat something with taking cardidopa/levodopa, but should not have any protein with cardidopa/levodopa as it interferes with its absorption causing the medicine to not work properly. I learned this at a Parkinsons seminar from a movement disorder specialist. He said you can eat with taking medicine, just not protein. Take cardidopa/levodopa 1 hour before or 1 hour after intake of any protein.

@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member is right. Taking cardidopa/levodopa on an empty stomach can upset the stomach and cause nausea. It does that for me if I don’t eat something. It may not be a problem for some people. If you take it on empty stomach and if it causes nausea, then eat something with your medicine, just don’t eat any protein.

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A MyParki...

I always eat something, not protein, when I take my cardidopa/levodopa. The first medicine of the day will still make my stomach feel uneasy. Not too bad though.

I was advised to wait an hour before eating after taking the tablets.

Welcome Connie to the Parkinsons connection! Boxing that we speak of is Rock Steady Boxing. Specifically designed for people with Parkinson’s. It’s a great program and has helped many people all over the world. I’ve been doing The boxing (RSB) for 4 years. It helps keep me moving and function better, keeps me motivated and also I gained another family...a Parkinsons family who all have come close and support each other. We also have fun! The boxing class is at least worth checking out, if you have one near you, your husband I hope he will try it. https://www.rocksteadyboxing.org/about/
There’s much support for you here and there are many caregivers as well on my Parkinsons team. Don’t hesitate to reach out to others and ask questions! Some of us have been through dealing with Parkinson’s a long time. Me, I’ve been diagnosed for 10 years. But before that I was on the other side of medical care, took care of others, a nurse for 27 years. Some of those years I did home health and hospice care so I fully understand how hard it is on caregivers. Talk later, hope to hear from you.

Duopa
My Neuro was really strict on this, no food except maybe a banana or a cup of coffee one hour before and one hour after, especially if the food has protein. He also advised me to take my carbidopa/levodopa with mineral water or any non sugar carbonated drink accelerates the absorption. IT really helps. Best Wishes Andy