Stalevo 200mg/50mg/200mg 30 Tabs Levodopa/Carbidopa/Entacapone

Stalevo is a combination medication commonly used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's Disease. It is a medication that helps improve movement control by reducing the tremors, stiffness, and slowed movements associated with this disease. Stalevo medication combines three active ingredients: levodopa, carbidopa, and entacapone, making it effective in controlling symptoms.
 

Dosage
 

Stalevo is available in different dosages, such as Stalevo 50, Stalevo 200, and others, allowing you to customize the treatment to the individual needs of the patient. It is important to strictly follow the doctor's dosage recommendations to maximize the effectiveness of the medication and minimize the risk of side effects.

Initial dosage: Treatment usually begins with a low dose to assess the body's response to the drug and is gradually increased until the optimal effect is achieved. The starting dose may be Stalevo 50, which means 50 mg levodopa, 12.5 mg carbidopa, and 200 mg entacapone.

Dose adjustment: The dose may be adjusted depending on the degree of symptom control and side effects that occur. For example, Stalevo 200 contains 200 mg of levodopa and is intended for patients who need a higher dosage to manage symptoms.

Frequency of administration: Stalevo is usually taken several times a day, strictly on a schedule, to maintain an even level of the medication in the blood. The frequency of administration and exact time of administration must be strictly adhered to prevent "blackouts," where the effects of the medication are temporarily diminished.
 

Contraindications and side effects when using Stalevo
 

While Stalevo can significantly improve patients' quality of life, it is important to consider the potential contraindications and side effects associated with its use.

Contraindications

Allergy to ingredients: Stalevo should not be used in patients with a known allergy to levodopa, carbidopa or entacapone or any other components of the drug.

Liver disease: Because entacapone may affect liver function, Stalevo is contraindicated in severe liver disease.

Glaucoma: The drug may increase intraocular pressure, making its use risky for people with glaucoma.

Pheochromocytoma: Due to the potential to cause severe hemodynamic changes, Stalevo medication is not recommended for patients with this condition.

MAO-inhibitors: Combining Stalevo with monoamine oxidase inhibitors may result in severe and potentially life-threatening reactions, including hypertensive crises.

Side Effects

Dyskinesias: One of the most common side effects is involuntary motor reactions such as dyskinesias, especially with high doses of the drug.

Mental disorders: Patients may experience hallucinations, psychosis, depression, and paranoid ideas, especially in the elderly and in those who already have cognitive impairment.

Gastrointestinal problems: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common side effects associated with taking Stalevo, especially during the initial stages of treatment.

Cardiovascular risks: Some patients may experience orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing up), which increases the risk of falls.

Changes in urine color: Entacapone, one of the components of Stalevo, may cause urine to turn red-brown, which is not dangerous but may alert patients.
 

Cost and availability
 

Stalevo costs can vary by region and dosage. In some cases, Stalevo generic is available, which may offer a more affordable alternative without sacrificing quality. Patients are advised to research the various options and check with pharmacies or their healthcare providers for Stalevo price information.
 

Interaction of Stalevo with other drugs
 

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Using Stalevo in combination with MAO inhibitors (type A or B), such as selegiline or resagiline, may result in serious side effects, including hypertensive crises. These drugs can increase the amount of dopamine, which, combined with the effects of Stalevo, can cause dangerous levels of this neurotransmitter.

Antihypertensives: Stalevo may increase the effects of blood pressure-lowering medications, leading to a risk of orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up). Patients taking these combinations should be closely monitored for symptoms such as dizziness or fainting.

Iron supplements and antacids: Iron may interact with levodopa, reducing its effectiveness. Antacids containing magnesium, calcium, or aluminum may also reduce the absorption of levodopa. It is recommended to maintain a time interval of several hours between taking these supplements and the Stalevo medication.

Psychotropic medications: Certain antipsychotics and other medications that affect the central nervous system may decrease the effectiveness of Stalevo or increase some of its side effects, especially those associated with movement disorders or psychiatric changes.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Drugs like omeprazole or esomeprazole used to treat acid reflux may affect the absorption of levodopa in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially reducing its effectiveness.

Dietary Factors: Although not a drug interaction in the traditional sense, it is important to note that protein-rich foods may affect levodopa absorption. Proteins compete with levodopa for the transport systems that allow it to be absorbed in the intestine, which can reduce the drug's effectiveness.

Stalevo generic is an important element in the therapy of Parkinson's disease, contributing to the improvement of patients' quality of life. However, its administration should be strictly monitored by a medical professional to ensure maximum efficacy and safety. Discussing all aspects, including Stalevo dosage and cost, with your doctor will help determine the best course of treatment.