Indications 

Stalevo 150 is a combination medication used for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. It helps alleviate symptoms such as muscle stiffness, tremors, spasms, and poor muscle control associated with Parkinson’s disease.  

Stalevo contains carbidopa, levodopa, and entacapone. The tablet is brownish and elongated-ellipse-shaped. The specific dosage of Stalevo 150 is 37.5 mg of carbidopa, 150 mg of levodopa, and 200 mg of entacapone. It is prescribed for adult patients with Parkinson’s disease who experience end-of-dose motor fluctuations that are not stabilized on levodopa/dopa. 

Use and Dosage 

Stalevo 150 is typically taken orally as a tablet, with or without food, following the instructions given by your doctor. Usually, it is taken 3 to 4 times a day. Swallow the tablet whole with water and avoid crushing, chewing, or breaking it, unless specifically instructed by your healthcare professional. Because changing the dosages can affect how the medication is released and absorbed in your body. 

The dosage and frequency of administration will be determined by your healthcare professional based on several factors, such as the severity of your symptoms and your response to treatment. Follow their prescribed instructions for the medication. 

If you happen to miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is already close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Anxiety  
• Back pain  
• Blurred vision  
• Changes in your sense of taste  
• Constipation  
• Diarrhea  
• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) 
• Dizziness  
• Drowsiness  
• Dry mouth  
• Headache  
• Loss of appetite  
• Muscle cramps  
• Nausea  
• Skin rash or itching  
• Stomach pain or upset  
• Strange dreams  
• Unusual skin changes  
• Vomiting  

Serious Side Effects  

• Black or tarry stools 
• Blurred vision 
• Change in the amount of urine 
• Chest pain 
• Confusion 
• Diarrhea 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Easy bleeding or bruising 
• Eye pain 
• Fainting 
• Fast or irregular heartbeat 
• Fever 
• Greatly increased eye blinking or twitching 
• Hallucinations 
• Hives 
• Mood changes 
• Muscle pain tenderness or weakness 
• New or worsening muscle spasm 
• Persistent sore throat 
• Rapid breathing  
• Severe abdominal pain 
• Severe confusion 
• Severe dizziness 
• Sweating 
• Swelling of your face lips tongue or throat 
• Thoughts of suicide 
• Tingling of the hands or feet 
• Unusual muscle stiffness 
• Unusual strong urges (increased gambling sexual urges) 
• Unusual tiredness 
• Vision changes 
• Vomit that looks like coffee grounds Agitation  

Cautions 

• Cardiovascular Effects: The tablet may have cardiovascular effects, including hypotension (low blood pressure) and orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing). Patients with a history of cardiovascular disease should be closely monitored while taking Stalevo 150. 
• Dosage Adjustments: The dosage of Stalevo 150 may need to be adjusted in certain situations, such as in patients with liver or kidney impairment. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for your specific condition. 
• Drug Interactions: Stalevo 150 can interact with other medications, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal supplements.  
• Dyskinesia: Stalevo 150 may cause or exacerbate dyskinesia, which refers to abnormal involuntary movements. Patients should be monitored for the development or worsening of these movements and appropriate adjustments to the medication may be necessary. 
• Hallucinations and Psychotic Behavior: It has been associated with hallucinations and psychotic-like behavior. Patients may experience vivid dreams, illusions, or a sense of presence that is not there.  
• Hyperpyrexia and Confusion: Stalevo 150 may be associated with a syndrome characterized by hyperpyrexia (high fever) and confusion. This syndrome can potentially lead to rhabdomyolysis, a condition where muscle tissue breaks down.  
• Impulse Control Disorders: It has been associated with impulse control disorders, such as compulsive gambling, increased libido, and binge eating. Patients and their caregivers should be vigilant for any changes in behavior and report them to a healthcare provider. 
• Melanoma and Other Malignant Melanomas: There have been reports of an increased risk of melanoma and other malignant melanomas in patients treated with Stalevo 150. Regular skin examinations are recommended, and any suspicious skin lesions should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare provider. 
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The use of Stalevo 150 during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare provider. The potential risks and benefits need to be carefully considered. 
• Sleep Disorders: Stalevo 150 may cause sleep disorders, including sudden sleep onset, in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Caution should be exercised while driving or operating machinery, as Stalevo 150 can cause drowsiness or sudden episodes of falling asleep. 
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abrupt discontinuation or sudden dose reduction of the tablet may lead to withdrawal symptoms, including fever, muscular rigidity, and altered consciousness.