Comtan
EntacaponeWhat is Comtan used for?
Comtan is an inhibitor of catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT). Entacapone is the generic name for it. This drug is prescribed in conjunction with levodopa and carbidopa regimens. It is beneficial in treating symptoms related to Parkinson’s disease (PD) when the levodopa/carbidopa treatment wears off.
Comtan may be used as a single therapy or in combination with other medications.
How does Comtan work?
Parkinson’s disease is a nervous system disorder caused by a lack of dopamine, a natural neurotransmitter produced in the brain. Dopamine is a chemical messenger that controls muscle movement. A deficit of this substance causes unintended or uncontrollable movement that gradually worsens over time.
Parkinson’s disease causes motor symptoms such as rigidity, sluggish movements, tremors, and postural stability. Also, PD is characterized by non-motor symptoms such as drooling, trouble swallowing, depression, sleeplessness, and restless leg syndrome. When levodopa/carbidopa therapy wears off, these Parkinson’s symptoms occur.
When this drug is taken correctly and absorbed into the bloodstream, it helps relieve Parkinson’s symptoms. Comtan ingredients work as catechol-O-methyltransferase antagonists (COMT inhibitors). It blocks the COMT enzymes from breaking down levodopa before it can reach your brain to convert it into dopamine. This mechanism of action improves levodopa conversion into dopamine to be available in the brain. Also, this medicine helps boost the availability of norepinephrine and epinephrine in the nervous system. As a result, it helps in controlling and reducing Parkinson’s symptoms.
Comtan dosage
Every individual requires varying amounts of this drug. The frequency and dose depend on your medical condition, age, and tolerance to the medication. This drug is available in tablet formulation with a strength of 200 mg.
When taking this medication, one tablet is taken concurrently with each levodopa and carbidopa dose. The maximum daily dosage is eight tablets, equivalent to 1,600 mg.
For patients with moderate to severe Parkinson’s disease, the recommended dose is four to seven tablets each day, along with levodopa and carbidopa medication.
Remember not to take exceeded amount of this medication unless instructed by your physician. Doing so will make you more prone to unwanted signs and symptoms associated with a drug overdose.
Directions on how to take Comtan
Read all medication instructions carefully, and use the drug exactly as directed. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about using this drug.
As prescribed, take this medication orally with a full glass of water or as directed by your doctor. If stomach upset occurs when taking this drug, take it with meals or after eating.
Note that this drug is given together with levodopa and carbidopa medication. Entacapone alone has no antiparkinsonian effect of its own.
Take Comtan regularly to avoid missing a dose. Marking your calendar or setting up an alarm may help you remember to take your medication.
If you forget to take a pill together with levodopa, wait until the next dose is due and then resume taking it on the regular schedule. Do not take a double dose of this medication to cope with the missed dose. Doing so may increase the chance of you getting unwanted side effects.
Comtan side effects
The following are the most common side effects of Comtan at the beginning of treatment, which typically go away when your body has adjusted to it. Do not be alarmed when these occur; you may or may not experience any of the following:
- Involuntary movements (dyskinesia)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Muscle spasms
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Reddish-brown urine
Seek medical advice immediately if any of these side effects are becoming bothersome or if you experience any of the following adverse effects:
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS):
- Extremely high fever
- Irregular pulse rate
- Sweating
- Muscle stiffness
- Confusion
- Fluctuating blood pressure levels
- Severe muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis):
- Muscle pain or cramps
- Soreness
- Dark-colored urine
- Extreme sleepiness
- Twisting, jerking, or writhing movements
This list does not include all of the potential side effects of Comtan. Talk to your doctor because some people may have other side effects not yet known.
Comtan warnings
Inform your doctor if you have a mental disorder (psychosis), liver problems, or low blood pressure levels. Doing so will be their basis for determining whether or not this drug is safe for you and will keep you from exacerbating your condition.
Do not use this medication if allergic to entacapone or other ingredients. Keep an eye out for rashes, hives, swelling of the face and lips, throat tightness, or difficulty breathing when taking this drug. You should seek medical assistance as soon as these allergic reaction symptoms develop.
Do not take Comtan when you have a tumor in the adrenal glands, as this can increase your blood pressure to a high-risk level.
Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking to avoid drug interactions, especially if you are using a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), methyldopa, or iron-containing treatments.
In using iron supplements while taking entacapone, make sure to take them two to three hours apart to allow the medicine for maximum absorption.
When using Comtan, dizziness may occur; avoid driving or operating machinery to prevent mishaps.
Remember to keep this medication out of the reach of children at all times and store it in a cool, dry place.
Comtan Price in Canada
The Canadian government regulates the costs of medicines in the country. It is a fact that meds in Canada are much more reasonable than in other countries. In addition, our online drugstore is one of those pharmacies that supply Comtan. Visit our website and check our pricing details for your reference.
Frequently asked questions
Where to buy Comtan?
Plenty of online and local pharmacies are dispensing Comtan. From our online pharmacy, we offer a very competitive price. It is also available in generic form, which is significantly less expensive than the branded version. We make sure to supply products that are of quality and budget-friendly.
Is Comtan safe for pregnant women?
There are insufficient data on whether Comtan is safe for pregnant women. It is best to consult your doctor before starting this oral therapy to avoid harming your baby.
How long should I take Comtan medication?
Do not stop taking Comtan without first consulting your doctor. You may need to religiously take this drug for a long time to control your symptoms.
