Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
This medication is prescribed in conjunction with levodopa/carbidopa, for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Entacapone is classified as a COMT inhibitor, belonging to a class of drugs specifically designed for this purpose.
Entacapone functions by inhibiting a specific natural substance known as the COMT enzyme, responsible for the breakdown of levodopa within the body. By blocking this enzyme, entacapone prolongs the duration of levodopa’s effectiveness in the system, thereby preventing premature wearing off prior to the subsequent dose.
Uses and Dosage
Entacapone is administered orally in the form of tablets. It is to be taken concurrently with each dose of levodopa and carbidopa, with a maximum frequency of up to eight times per day.
Entacapone can be taken with or without food. Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage regimen, avoiding both excessive and insufficient intake, as well as surpassing the recommended frequency.
While entacapone aids in managing the symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease, it does not provide a cure. Continue taking entacapone even if you feel well. Ceasing entacapone intake without consulting your doctor can potentially exacerbate Parkinson’s disease symptoms and give rise to other hazardous consequences. If required, your doctor may gradually reduce the dosage before discontinuation.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dizziness
- diarrhea
- upset stomach
- movements you cannot control
- stomach pain
- drowsiness
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- difficulty breathing
- hallucinations
- high fever
- confusion
- muscle stiffness
- weakness with or without a fever
Caution
Prior to initiating entacapone treatment, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any known allergies you may have, including allergies to entacapone itself or other substances. This product may contain inactive ingredients that could potentially trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
Before commencing the use of this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of alcoholism, liver disorders, low blood pressure, mental or mood disorders (such as depression or schizophrenia), or sleep disorders.
This drug has the potential to cause dizziness or drowsiness. Consumption of alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you can safely do so.
Elderly individuals may exhibit heightened sensitivity to the side effects of this medication, particularly drowsiness and confusion.
During pregnancy, this medication should only be used when the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is uncertain whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding to ensure the safety of your child.
Form and Strength
Comtan is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Comtan tablet:
- 200mg
-
entacapone tablet:
- 200mg
FAQ
How long does it take for Comtan to start working?
This medicine begins to release its ingredients 30 minutes after you take it.
Does Comtan help with tremors?
Comtan is used together with carbidopa and levodopa to treat “wearing-off” symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, such as stiffness, tremors, muscle spasms, and poor muscle control.
Resources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/carbidopa-entacapone-and-levodopa-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20061604#:~:text=This%20medicine%20begins%20to%20release,this%20medicine%20from%20working%20properly
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/entacapone#:~:text=Entacapone%20is%20used%20together%20with,spasms%2C%20and%20poor%20muscle%20control
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/comtan
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-17761/comtan-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601236.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/comtan.html
