for full article see:
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNew...128?hub=Canada

sorce:CTV.ca News Staff

Date: Thursday Jan. 28, 2010 12:02 PM ET

Excerpts: "Health Canada is warning Canadians with Parkinson's about a shortage in a key medication used to treat the disease.

The generic medication Apo-Levocarb CR, in the 200mg/50mg strength, has been temporarily discontinued according to the manufacturer, Apotex Inc. No reason for the discontinuation has been given.

Apo-Levocarb is the generic version of Sinemet CR, which is owned by Merck Canada and distributed by Bristol Myers Squibb Canada. Sinemet CR tablets contain a combination of levodopa and carbidopa, also called levo-carb.

Bristol-Myers Squibb says the discontinuation of Apo-Levocarb has created a sudden new demand for their product and has caused a backlog....

The Parkinson Society of Canada says patients with Parkinson’s should not try to ration or stop their dosing of levo-carbidopa, noting that other forms of levo-carb are available.

“Stopping levo-carb suddenly for a prolonged period can result in worsening of Parkinson’s symptoms which in some cases can be severe and irreversible,” the society notes.
Patients and physicians can also call BMS Canada at 1-800-267- 0005."