Description
This medication is typically used for Parkinson's disease. Its effects can be felt within 1 hour.
Instructions
This medication is typically used 4 times a day. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed.
It must be used regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects. Be sure to keep an adequate supply on hand. This medication should be swallowed whole. It should not be split, crushed or chewed.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember -- unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Do not double the next dose to catch up. This medication may be taken with or without food. If it were, however, to cause nausea, taking the product with food could provide relief.
The medication may not be well absorbed if it is taken with protein-rich food. Ask your healthcare professional for details. To ensure effectiveness, avoid taking iron supplements or multivitamins for at least 2 to 3 hours before and after taking this medication.
Side Effects
In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:
- it may decrease your appetite;
- occasionally, it may cause trembling and involuntary movements (also known as dyskinesia);
- it may cause nausea and vomiting;
- it may cause diarrhea or constipation, depending on the person;
- it may cause dizziness - use caution when getting up from a lying or sitting position and use caution if driving;
- it may turn your urine orange-brown.
Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.
Storage
As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.
Additionnal Information
This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.
Rarely, this product causes potentially severe reactions, mostly if taken at high doses or with some other drugs. If you experience agitation, confusion, diarrhea, fever, tremor and muscular rigidity or contractions, you should contact your doctor.
General Notes
When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:
- Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
- If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
- If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
- The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.