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Home > Drug Category > Parkinson's Disease, Dopamine Agonists > Stalevo and Equivalent

Stalevo Information

Stalevo (Carbidopa/Levodopa/Entacapone) is a fixed-dose combination medication used to treat Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder caused by a lack of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain, leading to symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement. The effectiveness of Stalevo lies in the synergistic action of its three active components: levodopa, carbidopa, and entacapone.

Levodopa is the main active component as it is the immediate precursor to dopamine. Levodopa can cross the blood-brain barrier (a protective layer around the brain) and is then converted into dopamine, helping to replace the dopamine levels and reduce Parkinson's disease symptoms. Carbidopa and entacapone act as protectors, blocking the enzymes (DOPA decarboxylase and COMT, respectively) that prematurely break down levodopa in the body. This protective mechanism ensures a greater, more sustained amount of the crucial dopamine reaches the brain. Essentially, carbidopa and entacapone help make levodopa more effective and its benefits last longer.

Clinical studies have proven Stalevo to be safe and effective in managing Parkinson's disease. It is particularly useful for patients who are already on standard therapy but are experiencing fluctuations in dopamine levels at the end period between doses. It is effective in treating the symptoms that may arise as a result of these fluctuations in dopamine levels especially when they can't be controlled by standard therapy alone.

Stalevo Side Effects

Like many other medications, Stalevo has a spectrum of possible side effects, ranging from very common and manageable issues to more serious reactions that require immediate medical attention.

Common mild side effects include uncontrollable movements, nausea, urine discoloration, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, stomach upset, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, headache, and dry mouth. To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Anemia (low red blood cells) with symptoms like dizziness, pale skin, unusual tiredness;
• Easy bruising and bleeding;
• Eye pain, blurry vision, or other signs of glaucoma;
• Frequent urination;
• Gastrointestinal bleeding with symptoms such as black, tarry stools, or vomiting material that looks like coffee grounds;
• Heart attack with symptoms like fainting, nausea and vomiting, chest pain;
• High blood pressure;
• Lung problems such as chest pain, cough, difficulty in breathing;
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome with symptoms like confusion, reduced consciousness, high fever, or muscle stiffness;
• Neurological or mental disorders with symptoms like hallucinations, compulsive behaviors, confusion, uncontrolled movements of the body, depression, nervousness, and seizures;
• Stroke with symptoms like difficulty speaking, differential limb weakness on one side of the body, headache;
• Unusual behavioral activities such as compulsive or uncontrolled behaviour (e.g., gambling, spending), and hallucinations;
• Urinating difficulties

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Stalevo Precautions

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to the active and inactive ingredients in Stalevo, or any other medicines. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Blood disorders;
• Breathing problems;
• Diarrhea;
• Eye problems such as glaucoma;
• Heart disease;
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease;
• Low blood pressure;
• Mental or mood disorders such as depression;
• Seizure disorders;
• Skin condition such as melanoma;
• Sleep disorders;
• Stomach or intestinal ulcer;
• Urinating difficulties

Due to the risk of extreme drowsiness and sudden onset of sleep, it is advised to avoid driving or other hazardous activities until you understand how the drug affects you. A rare but significant warning is the potential to develop intense, uncontrollable urges, such as compulsive gambling or hypersexuality. Families or caregivers need to be aware of this possibility to flag it to the doctor immediately. Remember, never stop taking Stalevo suddenly. Abrupt discontinuation or a major dose reduction can trigger a syndrome similar to Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome which is a serious medical emergency.

Do not take this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless recommended by your doctor. The safety and effectiveness of using this medication have not been established for children. The absorption of levodopa may be impaired by a high-protein diet and iron supplements. Therefore, before using this medication, inform your doctor about any other medications you are currently taking, including herbal medicines and supplements, to determine if it is safe to use along with Stalevo.

Take Stalevo tablets orally, preferably with food for better absorption. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage for you depending on your condition and response to treatment. Avoid high-protein, high-fat, or high-calorie meals within 2 hours of taking this medication, as these foods can affect its absorption. Also, avoid taking iron supplements within a few hours of taking this medication. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or split it. Take this medication consistently as prescribed and avoid missing a dose. Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Stalevo?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Stalevo.