Entacapone and Parkinson's Disease Management

Mechanism of Action

• Entacapone inhibits the COMT enzyme, which reduces levodopa metabolism in the intestines and peripheral tissues.

Drug Classification

• Classified as a COMT inhibitor, which is relevant in Parkinson's disease management.

Brand Name

• Also known as Comtan, commonly used in clinical settings for Parkinson's treatment.

Usage

• Primarily combined with levodopa to enhance its efficacy and prolong its effects.

Dosing Information

• Regular doses of entacapone average at 200 mg per dose of levodopa.
• The maximum dosage allowed for entacapone is 1600 mg.

Patient Considerations

• It is contraindicated for individuals not taking levodopa.
• Adverse effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, yellow-orange urine, impulse control issues, and hallucinations.

Patient Education

• Patients should be informed of potential adverse effects.
• Stress the importance of adhering to the combination of entacapone with levodopa/carbidopa for effective treatment.

Nursing Interventions

• Nurses should monitor for adverse effects to evaluate if adjustments in levodopa dosing are necessary.

Drug Interactions

• Interacts with certain antihypertensives including methyldopa, dobutamine, and isoproterenol.
• Can increase methyldopa, dobutamine, and isoproterenol drug levels, warranting careful monitoring for these interactions.

This quiz covers the mechanism of action, classification, and usage of entacapone in treating Parkinson's disease. It highlights its role as a COMT inhibitor and the importance of combining it with levodopa. Understand the dosing information and patient considerations essential for effective treatment.