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

His patients, too, revert to their immobile states after the brief success of L-dopa. —Eren Orbey, The New Yorker, 20 Feb. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1939, in the meaning defined above

Medical 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.