Syncapone 100

Presentation:

Each tablet contains Levodopa 100 mg, Carbidopa 25 mg, and Entacapone 200 mg.

Indications:

Syncapone is indicated for the treatment of Parkinson's disease in patients experiencing end-of-dose "wearing-off" fluctuations. It is a combination medicine containing levodopa, carbidopa, and entacapone. Levodopa is converted to dopamine in the brain, helping to relieve Parkinson's symptoms. Carbidopa helps levodopa get to the brain and reduces some side effects. Entacapone helps levodopa work for a longer time by blocking an enzyme that breaks it down.

Dosage and Administration:

• Dosage must be individualized by the treating physician.
• The optimal daily dose of Syncapone must be determined by careful titration in each patient. Physicians should instruct patients about the appropriate number of tablets to take and the dosing intervals.
• Syncapone tablets are taken orally.
• The maximum daily dose of Syncapone should not exceed 8 tablets per day of any strength (this would equate to 800 mg of entacapone).
• To optimize the absorption of levodopa, Syncapone should preferably be taken on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before or one hour after meals. However, to reduce nausea, it can be taken with food. Avoid taking with high-protein meals.
• If a patient is currently being treated with standard levodopa/carbidopa preparations and entacapone separately, the physician will need to determine the equivalent total daily dose of levodopa.

Side Effects:

Common side effects may include:

• Dyskinesia (uncontrolled movements)
• Nausea
• Urine discoloration (reddish-brown-black)
• Muscle cramps
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Hallucinations
• Confusion
• Sleep disturbances

Less common but potentially serious side effects may include:

• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)
• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown)
• Melanoma (skin cancer)
• Impulse control disorders (e.g., pathological gambling, increased libido, compulsive shopping, binge eating)

Precautions:

• Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, heart problems, lung problems, narrow-angle glaucoma, or melanoma.
• Use with caution in elderly patients.
• Syncapone may cause or worsen dyskinesia.
• It may also cause orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure upon standing).
• Be aware of possible mental changes, such as confusion and hallucinations.
• Patients and caregivers should be aware of the possibility of impulse control disorders.
• Avoid abrupt discontinuation of Syncapone, as it can lead to a withdrawal syndrome.
• Syncapone may interact with other medications. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs¹and supplements.
• The safety of Syncapone during pregnancy has not been fully established. It should only be used if the potential benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Consult your doctor before use.
• It is not known if entacapone passes into breast milk. Levodopa and its metabolites are excreted in human milk. Breastfeeding is generally not recommended while taking Syncapone.

Storage:

Store below 25°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Important Note:

This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or neurologist for specific instructions and guidance regarding your medication, including the appropriate dosage and timing of doses for your condition. They can assess your individual medical condition and provide the most appropriate advice.