Entacapone is the primary active pharmaceutical ingredient found in Entacom. It acts as a blocker of catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) and is utilized for treating Parkinson's disease.
Entacom is a medication used in conjunction with levodopa and carbidopa for the management of Parkinson’s disease, alleviating symptoms like stiffness, tremors, muscle spasms, and poor muscle coordination.
Entacom contains Entacapone, which is classified as a COMT (catechol-O-methyltransferase) inhibitor. It functions by boosting the levels of levodopa and carbidopa in the brain, thereby mitigating the symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease.
You should not take this medication if you: are allergic to the active ingredient Entacapone or any other components of the drug; have severe liver impairment; are pregnant or planning to become pregnant soon; or are a nursing mother.
Inform your doctor if you: have problems with depression; suffer from kidney disease; have a history of skin reactions like rashes, hives, or itching; have liver disease; experience severe muscle weakness; or have heart conditions or irregular heartbeats; or if you have a tumor of the adrenal gland.
The dosage of Entacom varies based on your age, weight, treatment response, and medical condition. Thus, your doctor will determine the appropriate dose for you. Follow the prescribed dosage precisely and do not take two tablets simultaneously in an attempt to double your dose.
Entacom should be taken with food or without, as instructed by your doctor. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it. Continue taking the medication until you finish the prescribed course. Do not discontinue or alter the dose even if you start feeling better; complete the full treatment. In cases of overdose, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical attention. If you forget a dose of Entacom, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if the time for your next dose is approaching. Taking multiple doses close together can result in excessive medication in your system, which could be harmful.
Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain and upset, breathing difficulties, confusion, and drowsiness. If any of these symptoms persist, consult your doctor right away. Rarely, Entacapone may lead to serious side effects such as nausea, high fever, hallucinations, severely stiff muscles, uncontrolled eye movements, unexplained muscle and joint pain, and dark urine.
Do not use Entacom for any other conditions without consulting your doctor. Avoid sharing Entacom with others, even if they exhibit similar symptoms. If you do not feel better or fully recover after completing your prescribed treatment, contact your doctor without delay.
Store Entacom at room temperature. Do not freeze it.