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Entacapone (in-TACK-a-pohn) is only used in combination with levodopa to
control symptoms of Parkinson's disease. It is never used alone.
Take this drug at the same time as each dose of the levodopa-containing
product you take, because it decreases the metabolism of levodopa, and
therefore increases the effect of levodopa. It may be used in combination
with other medications, in addition to levodopa, to control symptoms of
Parkinson's disease.
This medication may be taken with or without food.
When you start taking this medication, you may need to decrease the dose of
the levodopa-containing product you take. Contact your physician as soon as
possible if you develop abnormal movements, hallucinations, or other side
effects, which may indicate that the dose of the levodopa-containing
product you take may need to be reduced.
It is important to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position, as this
medication may cause dizziness and decreased blood pressure, especially
when it is first begun.
As this medication may cause sleepiness and dizziness, especially when it
is first begun, it is important not to drive a car or operate machinery
until you know how it affects you.
Diarrhea is a side effect of this medication in some patients, which may
not develop until several months of therapy have been taken. Report this
side effect to your physician, if it occurs.
You should be aware that this medication may discolour your urine a
brownish-orange, orange, or dark yellow colour, which is harmless.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, with the
levodopa-containing product you take. However, if it is almost time for
your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular
schedule. Do not take two doses to make up for a missed dose.
Do not abruptly stop taking this medication, as signs and symptoms of
Parkinson's disease may occur. If treatment is to be stopped, your
physician may taper the dose of this medication, and may need to increase
the dose of the levodopa-containing product you take.
If you have experienced any unexpected or serious reactions to this drug,
this can be reported to Health Canada's monitoring program (tollfree
telephone 1-866-234-2345, tollfree fax 1-866-678-6789). Note that this is
not an emergency number.
Keep the medication in the original labelled container in a cool, dry place
away from direct light. Keep it out of the reach of children. Do not allow
anyone else to use this medication.
