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Can I take 5 and Levodopa together?

Drug interaction guide

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) can significantly reduce the effectiveness of levodopa. This means your Parkinson's symptoms, such as tremors or stiffness, may get worse or return even though you are taking your medication.

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Why this happens

Vitamin B6 speeds up the process of breaking down levodopa in the body before it has a chance to reach the brain. If the medicine is broken down too early, it cannot work properly to treat your symptoms.

You should avoid taking Vitamin B6 supplements (including multivitamins containing B6) while taking levodopa on its own. If you are taking a combination tablet (such as Sinemet or Madopar which contain carbidopa or benserazide), this interaction is less likely to happen, but you should still speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new supplements.

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Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.

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Article history

The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 14 Mar 2026 | Originally published
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