L-dopa
noun
L-do·pa
ˈel-ˈdō-pə 
: the levorotatory form of dopa that is obtained especially from fava beans or prepared synthetically, is converted to dopamine in the brain, and is used in treating Parkinson's disease
called also levodopa
Examples of L-dopa in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In 1968, the medical community was galvanized by the news that people with Parkinson’s could be helped by a new drug called levodopa, or L-dopa.
—
Oliver Sacks, The New Yorker, 23 Sep. 2024
His patients, too, revert to their immobile states after the brief success of L-dopa.
—Eren Orbey, The New Yorker, 20 Feb. 2023
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Oliver Sacks, The New Yorker, 23 Sep. 2024
His patients, too, revert to their immobile states after the brief success of L-dopa.
—Eren Orbey, The New Yorker, 20 Feb. 2023
Dictionary Entries Near L-dopa
Cite this Entry
“L-dopa.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/L-dopa. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
L-dopa
noun
L-do·pa
ˈel-ˈdō-pə
: the levorotatory form of dopa that is obtained especially from broad beans or prepared synthetically, is converted to dopamine in the brain, and is used especially in combination with carbidopa in the treatment of Parkinson's disease
called also levodopa
Note: Trademarks for preparations containing L-dopa include Duopa, Parcopa, Rytary, Sinemet, and Stalevo.
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share