Pronounced: COM-tan
Generic name: Entacapone
Why is Comtan prescribed?
Comtan
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 disease for a
longer period of time.
Comtan
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
Comtan'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?
Comtan 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 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.
--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 not be prescribed?
If
Comtan 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
Use
of Comtan 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 affects you
before you drive a car or operate machinery.
Nausea
and diarrhea are especially common side effects of Comtan, developing
in more than 10 percent of those taking it. In rare cases, the problem
is severe. Comtan 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 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
If
Comtan 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 with the following:
- Antidepressant
drugs classified as MAO inhibitors, including Nardil and Parnate
(Comtan 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 may appear in breast milk. It should be used with
caution if you are nursing your baby.
Recommended dosage for Comtan
--Adults--The
recommended dose is one 200-milligram tablet with each dose of Sinemet,
up to a maximum of 8 doses per day. If you were taking more than 800
milligrams of levodopa per day before starting Comtan, you will
probably need a reduction in your levodopa dose once you begin taking
the drug.
Overdosage
Little
is known about the result of Comtan overdose. However, the results
could be serious, so if you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention
immediately.
Information provided by PDRhealth.com