A key safety instruction for carbidopa-levodopa therapy is to avoid what action?

• A. Take it with meals.
• B. Discontinue gradually when side effects occur.
• C. Never stop it suddenly.
• D. Only take at night.

Answer: (C)

Avoiding abrupt stopping of carbidopa-levodopa is essential because stopping suddenly can trigger a withdrawal reaction with a rapid and dangerous worsening of Parkinsonian symptoms, sometimes accompanied by autonomic instability. To discontinue safely, the dose is tapered under medical supervision or adjusted gradually rather than stopped abruptly. If side effects occur, work with a clinician to modify the regimen instead of quitting the medication outright. Taking the medication with meals can help reduce GI symptoms, though protein in meals can affect absorption, so timing may be adjusted. The key safety point is to never stop the medication suddenly.