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The combination of Stalevo (combination with entacapone) is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease including tremors (shaking), stiffness, and slowness of movement. It also may improve your gait (walk), posture, swallowing, speech, handwriting, vigor, alertness, and sense of well-being and may control excess salivation and seborrhea (oily, crusty, scaly skin). Stalevo (combination with entacapone) is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Stalevo (combination with entacapone) comes as a regular and extended-release (long-acting) tablet to take by mouth. Stalevo (combination with entacapone) usually is taken three or four times a day. You may have to take Stalevo (combination with entacapone) for several months before you feel its full effect. It may be needed for a long time to treat Parkinson's disease. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Stalevo (combination with entacapone) exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking Stalevo (combination with entacapone) suddenly without talking with your doctor. Sudden stoppage can cause symptoms of Parkinson's disease to return. If you are switching from levodopa (Dopar or Larodopa) to the combination of Stalevo (combination with entacapone) (Sinemet), wait at least 8 hours after your last dose of levodopa to take your first dose of Stalevo (combination with entacapone) drug. Do not cut, crush, or chew the extended-release tablets; swallow them whole. |