Benserazide is a carbohydrazide formed by the formal condensation of the carboxy group of DL-serine with the primary amino group of 4-(hydrazinylmethyl)benzene-1,2,3-triol. It is an aromatic-L-amino-acid decarboxylase inhibitor (DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor) that does not cross the central nervous system. Used as its hydrochloride salt, it is an adjunct to levodopa in the treatment of parkinsonism. By inhibiting peripheral conversion of levodopa to dopamine, it increases the amount of levodopa reaching the CNS, reducing the required dose. Benserazide has no antiparkinson effects when used alone. It functions as an EC 4.1.1.28 inhibitor, an antiparkinson drug, and a dopaminergic agent. It is a carbohydrazide, a catechol, a primary amino compound, and a primary alcohol. It is the conjugate base of benserazide(1+).
