Levodopa, melanoma, and Parkinson's disease

Neurology. 1993 Apr;43(4):674-7. doi: 10.1212/wnl.43.4.674.

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.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Antiparkinson Agents / adverse effects*
  • Contraindications
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Levodopa / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Melanoma / complications*
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / chemically induced*
  • Parkinson Disease / complications*
  • Parkinson Disease / drug therapy*
  • Skin Neoplasms / complications*

Substances

  • Antiparkinson Agents
  • Levodopa