Adcapone Tablet (10 Tab)

ADCAPONE Tablet

Name

Common Name: Adcapone Tablet Brand Name: ADCAPONE TABLET (10 TAB) by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD. (Also referred to as Adcapone 200mg Tablet)

Composition

Each tablet contains Entacapone 200 mg. Entacapone is a selective and reversible inhibitor of catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT).

Uses

ADCAPONE Tablet is primarily prescribed for the management of Parkinson's disease. It is used in conjunction with levodopa (and often carbidopa/levodopa) to alleviate "wearing-off" symptoms, which include stiffness, tremors, muscle spasms, and impaired muscle control. By inhibiting the COMT enzyme, it reduces the breakdown of dopamine in the brain, thereby prolonging the effects of levodopa and improving motor control.

Dosage and Administration

ADCAPONE Tablet is typically administered in conjunction with carbidopa/levodopa. It can be taken with or without food. Consistency is crucial, and patients are advised to take it at the same time each day, ideally at bedtime, to maintain a stable level of the drug. The tablet should be swallowed whole and should not be chewed, crushed, or broken. The typical single maximum dose is 200 mg, with a frequency of up to 8 times daily, as directed by the doctor. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, abrupt discontinuation of this medication is not recommended, as it may worsen the condition.

Side Effects

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, confusion, constipation, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), nightmares, increased sweating, dizziness, and diarrhea. Dizziness and sleepiness are potential side effects, and caution is advised when driving or operating machinery. Diarrhea is common, and patients should stay well-hydrated. Other possible side effects include hallucination, impaired muscle coordination, abdominal pain, and dry mouth. The medication may also cause urine to turn a brownish-orange color, which is harmless. In case of overdose, symptoms may include confusion, decreased activity, sleepiness, decreased muscle tone, skin discoloration, and urticaria.

Precautions

• Driving and Operating Machinery: ADCAPONE Tablet can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and low blood pressure; therefore, activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, should be avoided until the patient knows how the medication affects them.
• Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol is not recommended as it may increase severe adverse effects like confusion, dizziness, nausea, and weakness.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is generally not recommended due to limited data on safety and potential harm to the baby.
• Liver and Kidney Disease: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease; dose adjustments may be necessary.
• Hypotension: Use with caution in patients with low blood pressure or those receiving antihypertensive medications due to an increased risk of very low blood pressure.
• CNS Disorders: Caution is advised in patients with central nervous system disorders due to an increased risk of severe side effects like hallucinations and psychotic episodes, especially in elderly patients.
• Skin Examination: Regular skin examinations may be recommended by the doctor due to a potential risk of melanoma development.
• Behavioral Changes: Patients should report any unusual mood changes, abnormally high sex drive, hallucinations, or impulsive behavior to their doctor.
• Pediatric Use: Not recommended for use in patients less than 18 years of age.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about ADCAPONE TABLET (10 TAB) by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD., along with concise answers:

What is Adcapone Tablet used for?

Adcapone Tablet is used as an add-on treatment for Parkinson's disease, specifically to manage "wearing-off" symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, poor muscle control, and muscle spasms. It is typically used in combination with levodopa and carbidopa to enhance their effects.

How does Adcapone Tablet work?

Adcapone Tablet contains Entacapone, which is a catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitor. It works by blocking the COMT enzyme, which normally breaks down dopamine and levodopa in the body. By inhibiting this breakdown, Adcapone increases and prolongs the amount of levodopa available in the brain, leading to more consistent dopamine levels and better control of body movements in Parkinson's patients.

What is the usual dosage of Adcapone Tablet?

The typical dosage for adults is 200 mg taken with each levodopa/carbidopa dose, up to a maximum of 8 times per day, not exceeding a total of 1600 mg daily. It can be taken with or without food.

What are the possible side effects of Adcapone Tablet?

Common side effects can include nausea, fatigue, vomiting, confusion, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), nightmares, and increased sweating. It may also cause low blood pressure, drowsiness, and impaired muscle coordination. A common and harmless side effect is the discoloration of urine to a brownish-orange color.

Is Adcapone Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Adcapone Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy, and caution is advised as it may be unsafe, with animal studies showing potential harm to the developing baby. It is also probably unsafe to use during breastfeeding, as limited human data suggests the drug may pass into breast milk and potentially affect milk production.

Can Adcapone Tablet be taken with other medications?

Adcapone Tablet is always prescribed as an adjunct to levodopa and carbidopa therapy. You should inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, especially other drugs that can cause low blood pressure. It should not be used with certain MAO inhibitors. It may also interact with medicinal products containing a catechol group (e.g., adrenaline, dopamine). Alcohol consumption is not recommended as it may increase drowsiness and dizziness.

What precautions should be taken while taking Adcapone Tablet?

This medication can cause dizziness and drowsiness, and may even lead to sudden sleep onset. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how the medicine affects you. Patients with liver or kidney disease should use Adcapone Tablet with caution, and dosage adjustments may be necessary. Report any unusual changes in mood, an abnormally high sex drive, or hallucinations to your doctor. Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can worsen your condition. If you experience diarrhea, ensure you drink plenty of fluids. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is recommended, especially for those prone to low blood pressure. It is not recommended for children under 18 years of age.

What happens if a dose of Adcapone Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should Adcapone Tablet be stored?

Adcapone Tablet should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, at a temperature below 30°C. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.