hello mike i would like to helpo you, but most of your concerns shud be answered by your doctor. BUT, as a sinemet user i could tell you the following meds is most effective if taken at least one half hour before or after meals my doctor and many news letters confirm that being on a high carbo diet helps the medicine work casrbo to protien shud be abt seven to one. also ask your doctor about the vitamin E & C megadoses (abt 3000 units/day) good luck and keep me informed I suggest you contact your local PD foundation joyce