Hypotension Caused by L-Dopa

Abstract

In 20 patients with idiopathic Parkinsonism maximum tolerated doses of L-dopa were found to induce a mean reduction in blood pressure (erect systolic) of 19.3 mm.Hg, without any significant change in pulse rate. This hypotension may be due to dopamine, acting on adrenergic nerve endings or on the central nervous system itself.