What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- Liver disease
- Mental health condition
- Tobacco use
- An unusual or allergic reaction to istradefylline, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Breast-feeding
What may interact with this medication?
- Certain antibiotics, such as clarithromycin
- Certain medications for cholesterol, such as atorvastatin, lovastatin, simvastatin
- Certain medications for fungal infections, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole
- Certain medications for seizures, such as carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin
- Digoxin
- Rifampin
- St. John's wort
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. Do not suddenly stop taking your medication because you may develop a severe reaction. Your care team will tell you how much medication to take.
There have been reports of increased sexual urges or other strong urges, such as gambling, while taking this medication. If you experience any of these while taking this medication, you should report this to your care team as soon as possible.
If you smoke, tell your care team if you notice this medication is not working well for you. Talk to your care team if you decide to stop smoking.
Talk to your care team if you wish to become pregnant or think you might be pregnant. This medication can cause serious birth defects.