Indications
Comtan is a medication used in conjunction with levodopa/carbidopa to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. The active ingredient in Comtan is Entacapone. Entacapone works by inhibiting catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), an enzyme that breaks down levodopa in the body.
Entacapone helps treat symptoms of end of dose "wearing-off" that some people experience when taking carbidopa/levodopa. By inhibiting COMT, entacapone helps to increase and prolong the effect of levodopa in the brain, and can improve motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement. Comtan is available as tablets containing 200 mg of entacapone.
Uses and Dosage
Comtan (Entacapone) comes as a tablet to be taken orally, either with or without food. It is typically taken with each prescribed dose of levodopa/carbidopa (up to 8 times daily), or as directed by your physician. Take Comtan regularly to receive the maximum benefits, and to take it at a consistent time each day to ensure that you remember to take it. Do not discontinue usage suddenly unless advised to do so by your healthcare provider, as this may result in the worsening of Parkinson's symptoms.
The recommended dosage is based on your medical condition, liver function, and response to therapy. However, the typical dose of Comtan tablet is 200 mg by mouth taken with each dose of carbidopa/levodopa. Do not take more than 1,600 mg (8 tablets) in a day.
Side effect
Common Side Effects of Comtan (Entacapone):
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Uncontrolled muscle movements
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Comtan (Entacapone):
- Allergic reactions (Rashes, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing)
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Decrease in blood pressure (increased sweating, falling, fainting, severe dizziness)
- Hallucinations
- Hepatitis (loss of appetite, weakness, exhaustion, jaundice, darkened urine)
- Increases in heart rate or temperature
- Muscle stiffness
- Muscle twitching
- Shaking
- Skin rashes, blisters, or redness
- Somnolence (excessive sleepiness, drowsiness)
- Swelling or blueness in the extremities
Form and Strength
Comtan (Entacapone) is available in the following forms and strength:
Comtan: Tablet
- 200 mg
Entacapone: Tablet
- 200 mg
Caution
- Entacapone should be used with caution in patients who have a history of liver disease or impaired liver function, as it may increase the risk of liver damage.
- Comtan may interact with other medications, such as MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitors, antidepressants, and antipsychotics, and increase the risk of adverse effects or drug interactions.
- Patients taking Comtan should be closely monitored for any signs of hallucinations, mental/mood changes, or unusual behavior.
- Entacapone may cause orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure that occurs when standing up from a sitting or lying position.
- Comtan may cause or worsen dyskinesia, involuntary movements of the arms or legs, in some patients.
- Entacapone should be used with caution in patients with a history of melanoma or other skin cancers.
- Comtan may cause or worsen dyskinesia, involuntary movements of the face, arms, or legs, in some patients.
- The dosage of levodopa/carbidopa may need to be adjusted when starting Comtan, and patients should be closely monitored for changes in symptoms or side effects.
- Comtan should be used with caution in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease, as it may increase the risk of certain cardiovascular events.
- Patients taking Comtan should avoid alcohol and other drugs that lower blood pressure, as this may increase the risk of orthostatic hypotension.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Comtan safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
The safety of Comtan during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established, and its use in these populations is not recommended.
How long does it take for Comtan to start working?
Comtan takes about 1 to 2 hours to start working, and the effects typically last for about 4 to 6 hours.
Can Comtan be used alone, without levodopa/carbidopa?
No, Comtan must be used together with levodopa/carbidopa to be effective in treating Parkinson's disease symptoms.
How should Comtan be stored?
Comtan should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Comtan?
If you miss a dose of Comtan, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Resources
- https://parkinsonsnewstoday.com/parkinsons-disease-treatments/motor-symptoms/comtan-entacapone/
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-17761/comtan-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/comtan.html
- https://www.goodrx.com/entacapone/what-is
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/020796s026lbl.pdf
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