Stalevo 50 (Carbidopa-Levodopa-Entacapone)

Do’s

• Stalevo 50 should be taken orally, either with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. Taking it with food may help decrease nausea.
• The usual dosing frequency is 3 to 4 times a day, with one tablet taken for each dose. Swallow the tablet whole.
• Separate the dose of Stalevo 50 by as many hours as possible from any iron supplements or products containing iron, such as multivitamins with minerals. Iron can reduce the absorption of Stalevo 50 by the body.
• The specific dosage of Stalevo 50 will depend on your medical condition and response to treatment. Use the medication regularly and at the same times each day to derive the maximum benefit from it. 
• If you experience a "wearing-off" effect (worsening of symptoms before the next dose) or an "on-off" effect (sudden short periods of stiffness), contact your healthcare provider for possible dose adjustments.

Don’ts

• Do not crush, chew, or split the tablet, as doing so may result in an incorrect dose and may cause staining of the mouth, dentures, and saliva.
• Avoid a high-protein diet during treatment, unless directed otherwise by your healthcare provider, as it can decrease the amount of levodopa absorbed by the body.
• Avoid taking Stalevo 50 with a high-fat, high-calorie meal, as this can delay the onset of its effects by approximately 2 hours.
• Do not stop taking Stalevo 50 without consulting your healthcare provider, as some conditions may worsen when the medication is suddenly stopped. Abrupt discontinuation of Stalevo 50 can also lead to withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, depression, confusion, fever, and muscle stiffness. To prevent withdrawal, your healthcare provider may gradually lower your dose if needed.

Common Side Effects:

• Diarrhea
• Dyskinesia (hyperkinetic muscle activity)
• Nausea
• Dark urine
• Urine discoloration
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and other side effects may occur. Additionally, some side effects may be more common at the beginning of treatment and may disappear as treatment continues.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, seek medical attention promptly. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance and determine the best course of action.

Stalevo 50 may interact with other drugs you are taking. Consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the safe use of Stalevo 50 alongside other medications.

If you experience increased sleepiness or fall asleep during the day while taking Stalevo 50, do not drive or engage in potentially dangerous activities until you have discussed this effect with your healthcare provider. The risk of this sleep effect can be increased by using alcohol or other medications that can cause drowsiness.

Stalevo 50 should be used with caution in certain populations, such as pregnant or nursing individuals, children, and the elderly. Consult with a healthcare provider for specific guidance in these cases.

This information is not exhaustive. Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and information regarding the warnings and precautions of Stalevo 50.