What is Istradefylline?
It is used in conjunction with Levodopa or Carbidopa for the treatment of "wearing off" episodes (muscle stiffness and loss of muscle control), which can occur when people with Parkinson’s disease are taking Istradefylline. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of istradefylline.
Side effects of Istradefylline
Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, difficulty breathing and/or swelling of the face, lips or throat. Seek medical assistance immediately if this happens to you.
Istradefylline may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Uncontrolled or involuntary muscular movements
- Unusual thoughts or behaviors
- Confusion, hallucinations,
- Risk-taking behavior, being impulsive.
While taking istradefylline, you may experience increased sexual urges or unusual gambling urges. If this happens, talk to your doctor.
Istradefylline side effects may include:
- Involuntary muscular movements
- Hallucinations;
- Dizziness;
- Nausea, constipation,
- Sleep problems (insomnia).
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Similar/related drugs
Ropinirole, pramipexole, benztropine, carbidopa/levodopa , Exelon, and Gocovri
Warnings
Please read all the instructions on the label or package of your medication. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, your allergies, and the medicines you are using.
Before you take this drug
Provide information to your physician if any of the following occur:
- Abnormal muscle movements;
- Mental illness or psychosis
- Liver disease
- If you smoke.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing.
How to take Istradefylline?
Read and follow all instructions or guides included with your medication.. Follow the directions on the label.
Take istradefylline once a day. Do not forget to follow your doctor's instructions. Take istradefylline either with or without food. Store products away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
Details on dosage
Adult dosage for Parkinson's disease:
Initial dose: 20 mg orally, once per day.
The dose can be increased according to individual tolerance and need.
Maintenance dose: 20–40 mg orally, once daily.
Maximum dose: 40 mg/day
Use: As an adjunct to levodopa or carbidopa for Parkinson's patients experiencing OFF episodes.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Take care when taking multiple medications simultaneously; certain drugs could alter the blood levels of others and potentially lead to side effects or make them less effective.
Istradefylline can be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal products. Notify your doctor of any medications you are currently taking or plan to start or stop taking, including any that are new or changing in dosage or frequency.
