Comtan

The active ingredient in Comtan is entacapone. Parkinson's disease (PD) symptoms are the result of decreased dopamine levels in the brain. People with Parkinson's disease frequently take a drug called levodopa. Levodopa is converted into dopamine in the brain, and this helps to alleviate PD symptoms. However, a protein (enzyme) in the body breaks down levodopa before it reaches the brain. This protein is known as catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT). COMT makes levodopa less effective at relieving Parkinson's disease symptoms.

Entacapone (Comtan) is a COMT inhibitor, and the mechanism of action is that it inhibits the COMT protein, reducing the amount of levodopa broken down in the body. When you combine entacapone (Comtan) with carbidopa/levodopa, levodopa can reach and remain at higher levels in the brain. This permits more levodopa to be converted into dopamine, which helps to reduce Parkinson's disease symptoms.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Comtan. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Comtan:

• Comtan should be taken along with carbidopa and levodopa. This medication, when administered alone, will not treat Parkinson's disease symptoms.
• Comtan may be taken with or without food. Entacapone nausea is a typical side effect; therefore, taking the medication with food may help prevent it.
• Drink plenty of water while taking Comtan.
• Comtan may lead you to fall asleep while doing routine everyday activities, including working, talking, eating, or driving. Even if you feel aware, you may fall asleep suddenly. Inform your doctor if you have daytime tiredness or drowsiness.

Some mild and common side effects of entacapone seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Involuntary movements (dyskinesia).
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Muscle spasms.
• Diarrhea.
• Weight loss.
• Changes in the color of your urine.
• Stomach pain.
• Back pain.
• Constipation.
• Dry mouth.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Sleepiness.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Comtan. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) symptoms include high fevers, an irregular pulse, sweating, confusion, and muscle stiffness.
• Severe muscle injury (rhabdomyolysis) causes muscle pain, discomfort, cramping, black urine, and weakness.
• Allergic reaction to the medication, such as hives, skin rash, or swelling.
• Low blood pressure and fainting when you stand up (orthostatic hypotension).
• Behavioral changes such as hallucinations, paranoia, delusions, confusion, and aggression.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Comtan. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Comtan, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• Allergies to the medication.
• Low blood pressure.
• Liver disease.
• History of mental diseases or psychosis.
• While taking Comtan, you may have increased sexual desire, unexpected gambling desires, or other extreme urges. Consult your doctor if this happens.
• People with Parkinson's disease may be more likely to get skin cancer (melanoma). Speak with your doctor about this risk and what skin symptoms to look for. You may need to have regular skin examinations.

Hypersensitivity to the medication.

Comtan begins to increase levodopa levels in the body following the first dose. Levodopa also remains in the bloodstream for a longer period of time following the initial dose of Comtan. This improves the effectiveness and duration with which carbidopa/levodopa can treat the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

When Comtan is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Isocarboxazid.
• Linezolid.
• Methylene blue injection.
• Phenelzine.
• Tranylcypromine.
• Epinephrine.
• Apomorphine.
• Dobutamine.
• Methyldopa.
• Norepinephrine.
• Warfarin.
• Isoproterenol.

The normal dose is a 200 mg tablet orally with each dose of carbidopa/levodopa (Sinemet, Rytary). Do not take more than 1,600 mg (8 pills) each day.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Orion Pharma is the company that manufactures Comtan.

There are several lower-cost generic versions of Comtan available.

You should not stop using Comtan abruptly. Follow your doctor's recommendations for tapering your dosage.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is not known if Comtan is found in breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.