Entacapone
Information about Entacapone
Entacapone Uses
Entacapone is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
How Entacapone works
Entacapone is a selective reversible inhibitor which is given in combination with levodopa. It works by inhibiting a chemical messenger [catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT)] which in turn helps in increasing the amount of dopamine (chemical messenger) in the body. Thus, an adequate amount of dopamine controls the brains to coordinate body movements. This is how it works to manage Parkinson's disease.
Common side effects of Entacapone
Nausea, Confusion, Hallucination, Urine discoloration, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), Diarrhea, Ischemic heart disease, Abdominal pain, Involuntary muscle movement
Expert advice for Entacapone
- You have been prescribed Entacapone to enhance the effectiveness of levodopa for treatment of Parkinson's disease.
- It can make you very sleepy. Don't drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
- To lower the chance of feeling dizzy or passing out, rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down.
- Inform your doctor if you develop impulsive, unusual behavior and/or an abnormally high sex drive.
- Talk to your doctor in case you develop hallucinations or other changes in your behavior.
- It is common to have diarrhea with this drug. Therefore, drink plenty of fluids and watch for weight loss.
- Do not get worried if you notice a reddish-brown discoloration in your urine as it is harmless in nature.
- Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without talking to your doctor.