Entacapone is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors. It is used in combination with levodopa and carbidopa for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. The chemical name of Entacapone is 2-cyano-N, N-diethoxyethyl-3-(3,4-dihydroxy-5-nitrophenyl)-2-propenamide, and its molecular formula is C14H15N3O5. Its formula weight is 305.29 g/mol, and its CAS number is 130929-57-6.
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Synonyms of Entacapone:
Health Benefits of Entacapone: Entacapone works by inhibiting the activity of COMT, an enzyme responsible for breaking down levodopa in the body. By doing so, it increases the levels of levodopa in the brain, which helps to alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. The medication has been shown to improve motor function and reduce the amount of "off time" in patients with Parkinson's disease who are already taking levodopa and carbidopa.
Potential Effects of Entacapone: The use of Entacapone in combination with levodopa and carbidopa can increase the effectiveness of these medications and allow for a reduction in their dosage. This can help to minimize the side effects associated with these drugs. Entacapone may also provide a more consistent and prolonged effect on motor function than levodopa alone.
Product Mechanism: Entacapone is a selective and reversible inhibitor of COMT, an enzyme that breaks down dopamine in the brain. By inhibiting this enzyme, Entacapone increases the availability of levodopa, which is converted into dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in the regulation of movement, among other things.
Safety: Entacapone is generally safe and well-tolerated when taken as directed. However, like all medications, it can cause side effects in some people. It is important to speak with your doctor about any concerns you may have about taking this medication. Entacapone is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to any components of the drug or its analogs.
Side Effects of Entacapone: Common side effects of Entacapone include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, dry mouth, dizziness, and fatigue. Less common side effects can include hallucinations, confusion, dyskinesia, and orthostatic hypotension. In rare cases, Entacapone can cause liver damage.
Dosing Information: The recommended dose of Entacapone is 200 mg with each dose of levodopa and carbidopa, up to a maximum of 8 doses per day. The medication should be taken with food to enhance its absorption. It is important to follow the dosing instructions provided by your doctor to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit from this medication.
Conclusion: Entacapone is a useful medication for the treatment of Parkinson's disease in combination with levodopa and carbidopa. It works by inhibiting the activity of COMT, which increases the levels of levodopa in the brain and improves motor function. While Entacapone is generally safe and well-tolerated, it can cause side effects in some people. If you are concerned about taking this medication, speak with your doctor about your options
