Why Finding the Right Doctor for Crexont XR Matters

Crexont XR (Carbidopa/Levodopa extended-release capsules) is a newer medication for Parkinson's disease made by Amneal Pharmaceuticals. Because it was only approved by the FDA in August 2024, not every doctor is familiar with it yet. Finding a provider who knows Crexont XR well can make a real difference in your treatment.

If you're not sure what Crexont XR is or how it works, start there first. This guide will help you find the right doctor to prescribe it.

Which Specialists Prescribe Crexont XR?

Crexont XR is most commonly prescribed by:

• Neurologists — Doctors who specialize in brain and nervous system conditions, including Parkinson's disease.
• Movement disorder specialists — Neurologists with extra training in Parkinson's and similar conditions. They are the most likely to know about newer treatments like Crexont XR.
• Geriatricians — Doctors who focus on older adults. Since Parkinson's is more common in people over 60, some geriatricians prescribe Carbidopa/Levodopa medications.
• Primary care doctors — Your family doctor or internist can prescribe Crexont XR, but they may be less familiar with it and could refer you to a specialist.

How to Search for a Doctor Near You

1. Use Your Insurance Provider Directory

Start with your health insurance plan's online directory. Search for neurologists or movement disorder specialists in your area who are in-network. This helps you avoid surprise bills.

2. Search Medical Databases

These free tools can help you find specialists:

• American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Find a Neurologist — Search by location and specialty at aan.com.
• Parkinson's Foundation Helpline — Call 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) for referrals to movement disorder specialists near you.
• Michael J. Fox Foundation — Their website lists Parkinson's care resources by state.

3. Ask Your Current Doctor for a Referral

If you already have a primary care doctor, ask them to refer you to a neurologist who has experience with extended-release Carbidopa/Levodopa formulations like Crexont XR.

4. Consider Telehealth

Crexont XR can be prescribed through telehealth visits. This is a good option if you live in a rural area or have trouble traveling. Many neurologists now offer virtual appointments. Ask if the provider can send your prescription to a pharmacy that has Crexont XR in stock.

What to Ask at Your First Appointment

When you meet with a potential prescriber, come prepared with these questions:

1. Are you familiar with Crexont XR? — If the doctor hasn't heard of it, that's okay. You can share information from the mechanism of action page and ask if they'd consider it.
2. Is Crexont XR right for my type of Parkinson's? — Crexont XR is approved for Parkinson's disease, post-encephalitic parkinsonism, and parkinsonism from carbon monoxide or manganese exposure.
3. What are the side effects I should watch for? — Learn more in our Crexont XR side effects guide.
4. Will my insurance cover Crexont XR? — Coverage varies. Some plans require prior authorization or step therapy with immediate-release Carbidopa/Levodopa first.
5. Are there savings programs available? — The Crexont XR savings guide covers copay cards and patient assistance options.

What If Your Doctor Hasn't Heard of Crexont XR?

Crexont XR is still relatively new, so some doctors may not be aware of it. Here's what you can do:

• Bring printed information. Share the prescribing information or details about the dual-bead formulation that provides both immediate-release and extended-release Levodopa.
• Explain why you're interested. If you're experiencing "off" periods or wearing-off between doses of your current Carbidopa/Levodopa medication, Crexont XR's extended-release design may help.
• Ask for a referral. If your doctor isn't comfortable prescribing it, ask them to refer you to a movement disorder specialist who may be more familiar with newer options.

Switching From Another Carbidopa/Levodopa Medication

If you're already taking Sinemet, Sinemet CR, Rytary, or another Carbidopa/Levodopa product, your doctor can help you switch to Crexont XR. The transition requires careful dose adjustment — do not switch on your own. Your doctor will calculate the right Crexont XR dose based on your current medication and schedule.

For more about alternatives, see our Crexont XR alternatives guide.

Tips for a Smooth First Visit

• Bring a list of all your current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
• Write down your symptoms, including when they happen and how long they last.
• Note any "off" periods where your current medication seems to stop working before the next dose.
• Bring a family member or caregiver who can help describe your symptoms.
• Check for drug interactions with your current medications beforehand.

Don't Forget About Pharmacy Availability

Once you have a prescription, you'll need to fill it. Because Crexont XR is a newer brand-name medication, it may not be available at every pharmacy. Use MedFinder to check which pharmacies near you have Crexont XR in stock before your doctor sends the prescription.

The Bottom Line

Finding a doctor who can prescribe Crexont XR starts with looking for a neurologist or movement disorder specialist. Use insurance directories, medical databases, and referrals to find someone in your area. Don't be discouraged if the first doctor you see isn't familiar with Crexont XR — with the right information, you can advocate for the treatment you need.