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to Brian / will / Will / Jack / and all the others who have been commenting on When and Which medications and in What sequence and What is the best way to take them I would like to join the ongoing discussion with these 12 suggestions (based on my experience with Parkinsons) When and how to start levodopa (Sinemet). 1When the symptoms are interfering with work or play. 2When your neurologist is not at a conference or on holiday 3If you are under 70 it doesn't hurt to try selegiline, amantidine or an anticholinergic first. See rule 8. 4Controlled Release Sinemet can cause problems for elderly parkis. 5Start levodopa very very slowly and always with food. 6Long time Parkis with leather stomachs can take it without food. 7Increase the quantity taken very very slowly---like every 4-6 days 8It is not good to take a little of everything, keep it simple is a good policy. 9If possible, don't change two kinds of pill at the same time 10But if you are taking another anti-Parkinson pill you may become over-medicated, and should cut back. See rule 2. 11Don't be in a rush to say it doesn't work. It may take a month or more for you to adjust and be comfortable. 12 Because every person differs in their reaction to Parkinson medications, keep a record of how *you* react. Regards Anne Rutherford <<aruther@nlnet .nf.ca>>