What does it do?

Entacapone is used to treat Parkinson’s disease. It is used with another medicine called levodopa. Entacapone helps more levodopa get into the brain.

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have heart, liver or mental health problems.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take entacapone regularly as directed with a glass of water.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with entacapone including:

• iron supplements (e.g. Ferro-Tab®)

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Hallucinations Strange or uncontrolled movements Persistent diarrhoea, abdominal pain Falling asleep without warning	Tell your doctor
Drowsiness, dizziness, tiredness or weakness Diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth or throat Sweating	Tell your doctor if troublesome
Lightheaded or dizzy after standing up	Stand up slowly. If it continues, or is severe, tell your doctor
Change in urine colour (orange)	This is harmless

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Entacapone can impair your ability to do tasks such as driving or using machines. Alcohol makes this worse. Discuss your risk with your health professional. (search NZTA - Are you safe to drive?)
• Do not stop taking entacapone without talking to your doctor first.