The nurse is teaching a client newly diagnosed with Parkinson's disease about the appropriate use of levodopa-carbidopa. What should the nurse teach the client?

A. Take the medication an hour before eating meals: Levodopa-carbidopa absorption can be impaired by dietary protein because amino acids compete with the drug for transport across the intestinal wall and blood-brain barrier. Taking the medication 30–60 minutes before meals allows optimal absorption and more consistent therapeutic effects, improving control of Parkinson’s disease symptoms such as bradykinesia and rigidity. B. Take the daily dose at bedtime to minimize sedative effects: Levodopa-carbidopa is not primarily sedating, and dosing at bedtime would not provide symptom control during waking hours when mobility is most needed. Administering the medication during the day, timed appropriately around meals, ensures peak effectiveness during active periods. C. Take the medication with protein to aid in absorption: Protein actually interferes with levodopa absorption by competing for the same transport mechanisms. High-protein meals can reduce the drug’s effectiveness, leading to increased “off” periods of Parkinson’s symptoms. Patients are typically advised to separate protein intake from medication timing. D. Crush this medication before taking it, so it is easier to swallow: Many formulations of levodopa-carbidopa are enteric-coated or extended-release to protect the drug from gastric degradation and control absorption. Crushing the tablets can alter the pharmacokinetics, reduce effectiveness, and increase gastrointestinal side effects.