Brand
name : COMTAN ( Entacapone )
Pronounced: COM-tan
Generic name: Entacapone
Why is COMTAN ( Entacapone ) prescribed?
COMTAN ( Entacapone ) is used for Parkinson's disease. It is prescribed when doses
of the combination drug levodopa/carbidopa (Sinemet) begin to wear
off too soon. By extending the effect of each dose of Sinemet, it frees
the patient from the stiffness and tremors of Parkinson's for a longer
period of time.
COMTAN ( Entacapone ) works by inhibiting the effect of an enzyme that breaks down
the levodopa in Sinemet. It has no effect on Parkinson's disease when
used by itself.
Most important fact about COMTAN ( Entacapone )
COMTAN ( Entacapone )'s value lies in its ability to extend Sinemet's effectiveness
when it begins to decline. It is helpful only when taken with the other
drug, and has no benefit when used alone.
How should you take COMTAN ( Entacapone ) without
prescriptions?
COMTAN ( Entacapone ) should be taken with each dose of Sinemet. It can be taken
up to 8 times per day, with or without food.
If you miss a dose...
Take it along with a dose of Sinemet as soon as you remember. If it
is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back
to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.
Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
COMTAN ( Entacapone ) side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking COMTAN ( Entacapone ).
* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, back pain, constipation, diarrhea, discoloration of urine,
dizziness, nausea, onset of new movement disorders, tired feeling, vomiting
Why should COMTAN ( Entacapone ) not be prescribed?
If COMTAN ( Entacapone ) gives you an allergic reaction, you won't be able to use
it. It is prescribed only with caution for people with liver disease.
Special warnings about COMTAN ( Entacapone )
Use of COMTAN ( Entacapone ) can cause low blood pressure, with symptoms such as
dizziness, nausea, fainting, and sweating. Be careful when standing
up after you have been sitting or lying down. See how COMTAN ( Entacapone ) affects
you before you drive a car or operate machinery.
Nausea and diarrhea are especially common side effects of COMTAN ( Entacapone ),
developing in more than 10 percent of those taking it. In rare cases,
the problem is severe. COMTAN ( Entacapone ) may also cause hallucinations, and occasionally
triggers new movement disorders. In about 10 percent of those taking
it, it has the harmless side effect of turning the urine a brownish-orange
color.
An abrupt discontinuation of COMTAN ( Entacapone ) can cause a reappearance of Parkinson's
symptoms. If a decision is made to discontinue the drug, it should
be withdrawn slowly, under a doctor's supervision.
This drug is not intended for use in children.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking COMTAN ( Entacapone )
If COMTAN ( Entacapone ) is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to check with your doctor before combining COMTAN ( Entacapone ) with the following:
Antidepressant drugs classified as MAO inhibitors, including Nardil
and Parnate (COMTAN ( Entacapone ) can be used with a special type of MAO inhibitor
called selegiline, which is used for treating Parkinson's disease)
Bitolterol (Tornalate)
Certain antibiotics, including ampicillin and erythromycin
Cholestyramine (Questran)
Methyldopa (Aldomet)
Isoproterenol (Isuprel)
Probenecid (Benemid)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The possibility of damage to a developing baby has not been ruled
out. Tell your physician immediately if you are pregnant or plan to
become pregnant. COMTAN ( Entacapone ) may appear in breast milk. It should be used
with caution if you are nursing your baby.
Recommended dosage for COMTAN ( Entacapone )
ADULTS
Overdosage
