Carbidopa+Levodopa+Entacapone

When should one not use Carbidopa+Levodopa+Entacapone

• If you are allergic to levodopa, entacapone, carbidopa or any ingredients of Carbidopa+Levodopa+Entacapone.
• If you have a history of skin cancer called melanoma or the presence of moles on the skin which have not been clinically checked by a doctor.
• If you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs); these should be stopped at least 14 days before you start taking this medicine.
• If you have raised pressure in the eyes, a condition called narrow-angle glaucoma.
• If you are diagnosed with any serious mental illness.
• If you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant or if you are a breastfeeding mother.

Common side effects of this drug are:

• Uncontrolled movements
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Diarrhoea
• Reduced appetite
• Drowsiness

Other General Warnings

• You experience mood changes, sleep attacks or excessive sleepiness.
• You have a history of fits.
• You have or had an ulcer in your stomach or intestine.
• You have had a heart attack or heart disorder or breathing problems.
• You have had kidney, liver or hormonal problems.
• You have a scheduled surgery or operation.
• You have an eye condition called 'glaucoma', you will need to have regular checks on the pressure in your eye.

How Does It Work?

• Carbidopa+Levodopa+Entacapone offers relief in symptoms of Parkinson's disease by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain.
• Levodopa gets converted into Dopamine. This dopamine gives relief from symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
• Carbidopa and entacapone help in maintaining an optimal level of levodopa by inhibiting its breakdown by enzymes before it reaches the brain.

Interactions with other medicines

• Some medicines can affect the way Carbidopa+Levodopa+Entacapone works or this medicine itself can reduce the effectiveness of other medicines taken at the same time.
• Tell your doctor about all the medicines, supplements or herbals you are currently taking or might take to avoid any possible interaction.
• Especially if you are taking any other medicine to treat Parkinson's disease.
• If you are taking any iron preparations as it may decrease the effectiveness of Carbidopa+Levodopa+Entacapone when used concomitantly.
• Medicine for any mental illness may cause worsening of side effects; the dose needs to be adjusted.
• The patient's response should be monitored when administered Carbidopa+Levodopa+Entacapone with anticholinergic preparations like Benzatropine and Procyclidine.
• You may experience low blood pressure on standing suddenly from lying posture if you are on any antihypertensives.
• Medicine for tuberculosis and epilepsy may require a change in dosage.

Interactions with food items

Overdose

Missed a Dose