My husband was diagnosed with PD around a year ago. In early April this year he started on Sinamet 3 times a day. It had a great initial effect. However, today he has woken up utterly miserable for no reason. Snappy, angry and feels awful. Has anyone else had this as a side effect of Sinamet? Im hoping its just today and tomorrow he’ll be back to normal.
Thanks
Hi, CEM. I’m really sorry to hear your husband is feeling like this. It’s not uncommon for people with Parkinson’s to experience mood changes or emotional fluctuations, especially when starting a new medication.
If these feelings persist, it’s a good idea to reach out to your husband’s healthcare professional or Parkinson’s nurse to discuss how he’s doing. They can help determine whether it’s a temporary adjustment or something that may need further attention.
Please know that you can also call our free, confidential helpline for support and advice: 0808 800 0303. Our trained experts and specialist nurses are on hand anytime between 9am and 6pm Monday to Friday, and 10am and 1pm on Saturdays.
Hoping tomorrow is a better day for him, and please know that you’re not alone in navigating these ups and downs 
Parkinson’s UK Moderation Team
Good evening CEM … I am a 71 year old gent. I was diagnosed with Atypical Parkinson’s in June 2023. I have been taking Sinemet for over a year, 2 pills 3 times a day. I also felt it helped my symptoms. But I was advised to come off it as it was thought that the Sinemet was causing insomnia, Restless legs and nightmares. I have been off this drug for about a month now. I have found since I stopped that I have either had a withdrawal effect or the positives I got from taking Sinemet has gone.
I have certainly had periods where I have felt quite down, this comes and goes. I certainly had a bad week this past week but a lot better today strangely.
I live on my own & sometimes I get so moody that I don’t talk to myself. I guess there is a Victor Meldrew in all of us men at times.
Any questions please ask.
Best wishes
Steve2
Might be a good idea to keep a health / Parkinson’s diary for him, making a note on how he feels each day. Good days and bad days etc. Symptoms better or worse.
I often forget about the many better days I have and concentrate on the few bad days.
Steve2
Hi Cem
I believe one of the side effects of sinemet can be mood changes , so a chat with PD nurse if it continues would be a good idea .
Hope this helps you
Hi CEM,
I’m so sorry to hear hear what both of you have been going through.
Yes, as CandiceSAF25 and the others said different medications can have totally different effects on people.
As you said it worked well at first then lost its efficacy, is atypical of how PD can react.
Unfortunately you are just going to have to speak to your neuro/ nurse and see what they suggest.