Stalevo (Carbidopa/Levodopa/Entacapone)

Description

Stalevo is a drug used to help people with Parkinson's disease, a condition that affects movement. It combines three ingredients: Carbidopa, Levodopa, and Entacapone. Carbidopa works by making sure that Levodopa, another key ingredient, reaches the brain without breaking down too soon. Once in the brain, Levodopa turns into dopamine, a chemical that is often low in people with Parkinson's. Dopamine helps control movement and reduce symptoms like stiffness and shaking. Entacapone helps make Levodopa work better by blocking an enzyme that breaks it down.

Directions

It's important to take Stalevo as directed by a healthcare provider. Typically, patients will take the medication orally with or without food. The standard dosage for Stalevo is tailored to an individual's needs but usually starts at one tablet three times per day. Each tablet contains fixed doses of the three medications, and numerous strengths are available to ensure that patients can find the most appropriate dosage. Swallow the tablets whole, without crushing or chewing them.

Ingredients

The active ingredients in Stalevo are Carbidopa, Levodopa, and Entacapone.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using Stalevo if any of the following apply:

• Known hypersensitivity to Carbidopa, Levodopa, Entacapone, or any components of the formulation
• History of a condition called non-selective monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors usage within the past 14 days
• Narrow-angle glaucoma, a condition that increases pressure in the eye

Cautions

• Before starting treatment with Stalevo, make sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have:
• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications you are currently taking
• Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Stalevo may cause drowsiness or sudden sleep episodes during daily activities, even without warning signs. This can increase the risk of accidents, especially while driving or operating machinery. If you experience drowsiness or sudden sleep episodes, tell your doctor immediately and avoid potentially dangerous activities.
• Stalevo may cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness, fainting, or feeling lightheaded, especially when standing up. If you experience these symptoms, sit or lie down until you feel better and discuss your symptoms with your doctor.
• Stalevo can cause or worsen involuntary movements like shaking or twitching, known as dyskinesia. These movements may require adjusting your medication dosage, so let your doctor know if they occur.
• Stalevo may cause depression, hallucinations, or unusual behaviors, such as seeing or hearing things that aren’t there. If you notice changes in your mood or behavior, contact your doctor right away.
• Some patients on Stalevo experience strong urges, such as gambling, binge eating, or excessive spending. If you or your caregiver notice unusual or uncontrollable urges, inform your doctor. Adjusting or stopping the medication may help.
• Stopping Stalevo suddenly may cause confusion, fever, muscle stiffness, or other severe symptoms. Always work with your doctor to gradually reduce the dosage if discontinuation is necessary.

Side Effects

Stalevo may come with side effects. The most common Stalevo side effects include involuntary movements (dyskinesia), nausea, and diarrhea, affecting about 25% of users. Other frequent side effects are dry mouth, dizziness, and tiredness, which can affect daily life. Less common side effects may include sleepiness, increased movements (hyperkinesia), anxiety, muscle pain, and excessive sweating. Rarely, serious reactions like hallucinations and confusion can occur. If you experience severe or lasting symptoms or any concerning changes in mood or health, contact a healthcare provider.

References

1. Stalevo (Carbidopa/Levodopa/Entacapone) Product Monograph. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation; 2019.
2. Stalevo (Carbidopa/Levodopa/Entacapone) Drug Label Information. Morristown, NJ: Almatica Pharma LLC; 2020.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....