Description
This medication is typically used for Parkinson's disease. Its effects can be noticed within a few hours.
Instructions
This medication is typically used only once a day. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. It must be used regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects. Be sure to keep an adequate supply on hand.
Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed. If you forget a dose, simply skip it and then take the next dose at the regularly scheduled time.
This medication may be taken with or without food. A severe reaction may occur if this medication is taken with certain foods, such as: fermented cheese, cold cuts, beer, shrimp, organ meats and red wine. Avoid these foods during your treatment.
Side Effects
In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some adverse effects, notably:
- occasionally, it may cause trembling and involuntary movements (also known as dyskinesia);
- it may cause either drowsiness or excitability - use caution until you know how you will react;
- it may lower your blood pressure, which could cause weakness and/or dizziness - use caution when getting up from a lying or sitting position and when driving.
- it may increase your blood pressure;
- it may cause vision problems;
Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing adverse 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
Taking this medication during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use an effective contraceptive method.
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.
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.
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.