Entacapone is used in combination with levodopa and carbidopa to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease when symptoms begin to reappear despite ongoing drug therapy.
What is Entacapone?
Entacapone is an inhibitor of the enzyme catechol-O-methyltransferase. It is thought to act by modifying the pharmacokinetics of levodopa, a drug administered in Parkinson's therapy. Combined together with levodopa and carbidopa (or similar molecules to it), it increases levels of levodopa in the blood.
How should Entacapone be taken?
Typically, Entacapone is taken orally in the form of tablets and should be taken along with each dose of levodopa, up to eight times per day.
Side effects associated with Entacapone
Possible side effects of Entacapone include the following:
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Stomach problems
- Uncontrollable movements
- Drowsiness
You should immediately contact your doctor if the drug triggers:
- Difficulty breathing
- Hallucinations
- High fever
- Confusion
- Muscle stiffness
- Weakness, even with fever
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Entacapone
Entacapone may interfere with the ability to drive and operate hazardous machinery.
Before taking the drug, it is important to inform you doctor:
- If you have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or other drugs;
- If you are taking any medicinal products, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: ampicillin, apomorphine, bitolterol, chloramphenicol, cholestyramine, medications that cause drowsiness, dobutamine, epinephrine (adrenaline), erythromycin, isoetarine, isoproterenol, methyldopa, phenelzine, probenecid, rifampin, tranylcypromine and vitamins;
- If you suffer (or have suffered) from liver disease or alcoholism;
- If you are pregnant or breast-feeding
It is important to inform surgeons or dentists about any ongoing treatment with Entacapone.
