Levodopa, melanoma, and Parkinson's disease.

Weiner, W J; Singer, C; Sanchez-Ramos, J R; Goldenberg, J N · Neurology · 1993

case_series · Level IV

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Abstract

Previous reports and the Physicians' Desk Reference caution against the use of levodopa in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients with melanoma. A critical review of the literature reveals only anecdotal evidence to support a link between levodopa and melanoma. In fact, levodopa has an antitumor effect on melanoma. We report nine patients with PD and melanoma who were treated with levodopa/carbidopa (L/C). Current evidence suggests that L/C can be used safely in PD patients with a history of melanoma.

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