Key takeaways
Neupro (rotigotine) and Sinemet (carbidopa/levodopa) are both used to treat Parkinson's disease (PD), but they work in different ways and have different forms. Neupro is a dopamine agonist that comes as a patch you apply to your skin once a day, making it a good option if you have trouble swallowing pills. Sinemet, on the other hand, is a combination of carbidopa and levodopa that you take by mouth multiple times a day. Sinemet is available in generic form, which can be more affordable, while Neupro is only available as a brand name. Neupro can also treat moderate-to-severe restless legs syndrome (RLS), whereas Sinemet is specifically for PD and Parkinsonism. Both medications can make you very sleepy and cause hallucinations, but Neupro can also cause skin irritation where the patch is applied. Sinemet can turn your urine, sweat, and saliva dark, which is harmless but can stain clothing.
