Where is Entacapone used?

Entacapone is used for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. This is used with other medications such as Carbidopa and Levodopa to treat such a condition.

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. A symptom begins slowly, sometimes starting with a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand. Tremors are corporate but the disorder also commonly causes the slowing of movement.

Entacapone is a catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitor. It is a member of the class of nitrocatechols. This is available as tablets for oral use. In 1999, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this treatment.

How does Entacapone work?

Entacapone is an enzyme that usually breaks down excess dopamine in the brain. As Parkinson’s disease patients have a reduction in dopamine, blocking the action of this enzyme can result in dopamine levels increasing. This effect lets the levodopa last longer in the system so that it does not wear off before the next prescription.

How is Entacapone taken?

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to the treatment. You may take this drug with or without food. Take it by mouth with a full glass of water. It is usually prescribed Carbidopa and Levodopa up to 8 times every day. Follow all the prescriptions of your doctor very carefully. Take it regularly or at the same time each day. To avoid some complications, do not take twice the prescribed dosage. If you missed a dose, call your doctor for instructions.

Avoid taking any other medications at the same time as you take Entacapone. It might stop the other medications from being absorbed by your body. Either take your other medicine at least one hour before you take Entacapone, or wait until 4-6 hours after taking Entacapone before you take the other medicine. If you have any problems planning when to take your medications, talk with your doctor for a recommendation.

What are the possible side effects of Entacapone?

• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Dry mouth
• Uncontrolled muscle movements

Call your doctor right away if you experience any of these:

• Severe or ongoing diarrhea
• Unusual thoughts or behavior
• Agitation or confusion
• Very stiff or rigid muscles
• High fever
• Sweating
• Unexplained muscle weakness, pain, or tenderness mainly if you also have unusual tiredness, fever, and dark-colored urine

What are the precautions in taking Entacapone?

• Before taking Entacapone, tell your doctor if you have any allergies, medical history, or current medications including vitamins, herbal products, or food supplements.
• Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of this medication.
• If there is an overdose, call for medical help right away.
• You should not share this or any of your medication with others who have the same symptoms as yours.
• This medication should be used only when needed during pregnancy. Entacapone may not be recommended for use in a pregnant woman.
• Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding women before taking a dose of this medication.
• Keep this away from heat, moisture, and away from the reach of children.