Augmentation of Sodium and Potassium Excretion, Glomerular Filtration Rate and Renal Plasma Flow by Levodopa

After oral administration of levodopa in single doses of 1 to 2 g, glomerular filtration rate, renal plasma flow and sodium and potassium excretion significantly increased (p less than 0.05) in seven patients with Parkinson's disease. Similar effects were observed in patients initially treated with levodopa and in those receiving the drug for more than three months. Increased sodium and potassium excretion also occurred after administration of levodopa in three patients with congestive heart failure and in one with essential hypertension. The natriuretic effect of levodopa persisted for more than 150 minutes. These results suggest that the natriuretic effects of levodopa might be of value in the treatment of congestive heart failure. Natriuresis could also contribute to the orthostatic hypotension that commonly occurs in the levodopa-treated patient.