Nitecapone

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Nitecapone is a COMT inhibitor and antiparkinsonian agent. It is a derivative of naphthoquinone and is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Nitecapone is a potent and selective inhibitor of catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT). It works by blocking the enzyme COMT, which breaks down the neurotransmitter dopamine. This results in increased levels of dopamine in the brain, which can help to alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Clinical Use[edit | edit source]

Nitecapone is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. It is often used in combination with other drugs, such as levodopa and carbidopa, to enhance their effectiveness. The use of Nitecapone can help to reduce the 'off' periods experienced by people with Parkinson's disease, where their symptoms become worse.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Like all medications, Nitecapone can cause side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as liver damage or hallucinations.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Nitecapone Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD