How does it work?

Entacapone is used in conjunction with levodopa in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Dopamine is the chemical in the brain known to be absent or reduced in Parkinson's disease. Replacement dopamine cannot be given because it cannot cross the barrier between the blood and the brain. Levodopa can cross this barrier and is transformed into dopamine in the brain and the body. In this way it replaces the lost dopamine and reduces some of the symptoms of the disease. Levodopa is normally broken down in the body by an enzyme. Entacapone stops the action of this enzyme and so increases the amount of levodopa available to the brain. Therefore entacapone improves the effectiveness of levodopa in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.

What is it used for?

Parkinson's disease

Warning!

Some people may experience dizziness caused by low blood pressure in the first few days of taking this medicine. This can be relieved by lying down until the symptoms pass.

This medicine may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery.

Withdrawal of this medicine should be carefully monitored.

Use with caution in

Removal of toxic products from the body with the help of a machine

Not to be used in

Breastfeeding

Decreased liver function

High temperature combined with falling levels of consciousness, paleness, sweating and a fast heart beat (neuroleptic malignant syndrome)

Muscle break-down occurring due to alcohol/drug abuse, heat stroke or carbon monoxide poisoning (non-traumatic rhabdomyolysis)

Persons under 18 years of age

Tumour of the adrenal gland (phaeochromocytoma)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used in pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Significant amounts of this medicine may pass into breast milk. It should not be used by breastfeeding mothers. Discuss this with your doctor.

Label warnings

This medication may cause your urine to be coloured.

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