Possible Interactions

There are three important interactions with L-dopa that should be avoided.

Alcohol

Limiting  the  intake  of  alcohol is important because it can antagonize the effects  of  dopamine  and  result in

diminished control of symptoms.

Kava-Kava

Known as Piper methysticum, this popular treatment for anxiety and mild depression may decrease the effectiveness

of L-dopa as a result of a dopamine antagonistic action.31

Protein

Consumption of large quantities of protein containing foods can compete with L-dopa, an amino acid for transport through the intestine, and blood-brain barrier. A diet that varies greatly in protein content can result in difficulty

in controlling symptoms.

Although other significant interactions are likely to exist, these examples serve as  reminders that vitamins, minerals, herbs and food can alter the effectiveness of conventional treatments significantly at times and must

be considered when determining therapeutic doses.