Comtan (generic name: entacapone) is prescribed as an add-on therapy to levodopa and carbidopa to enhance their effectiveness in the treatment of Parkinson’s Disease. People with Parkinson’s Disease have reduced levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine in their brains, and this is thought to be the cause of the symptoms. Entacapone is a selective inhibitor of the enzyme catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT). A COMT inhibitor prevents that enzyme from breaking down and metabolizing levodopa, resulting in an increase in the levels of levodopa reaching the brain. Entacapone, taken together with levodopa and carbidopa, allows levodopa to reach the brain before it is converted to dopamine. Dopamine cannot cross the blood/brain barrier to reach the neurons in which levels of dopamine are depleted for people with Parkinson’s. By slowing the conversion of levodopa before it reaches the brain, its effect is to prolong the relief of symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease for a greater length of time than levodopa and carbidopa therapy alone. Comtan is prescribed to be used in combination with levodopa and carbidopa and is not effective on its own against Parkinson’s Disease. Dosage Doctors will prescribe the appropriate dose.
Brand Manufacturer: Novartis
Side Effects: Doctors prescribe this medication because they have judged that the benefits are greater than the risk of side effects. People may feel lightheaded or dizzy when standing up from a seated or lying position, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, stand up slowly. Temporary side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, gas, and abdominal pain. Increased drowsiness or tiredness may be felt during the day. Feelings of uncontrolled movements, sweating, or dry mouth may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, inform a doctor or pharmacist immediately. There have been rare reports of severe allergic reactions to this drug. If symptoms such as a rash, itching, or swelling, especially of the face, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing occur, stop taking the medicine immediately and go to an emergency healthcare center with the package containing this drug. Please be aware that not all possible side effects can be listed here. If you experience any of these or other unexpected side effects, consult a healthcare provider immediately. Information on this website does not take the place of talking with your healthcare professionals. NOTE: If you are taking other products that cause drowsiness, such as alcohol, cannabis, antihistamines, drugs for sleep or anxiety, muscle relaxants, or opioid pain relievers such as codeine, make sure that the prescribing doctor is aware of the frequency and dosages. If you are about to undergo dental work involving anesthetics, tell the doctor you are taking Comtan and when the last dose was taken. If you are experiencing sleepiness or drowsiness, do not drive a car or operate heavy machinery.
Indication: People who have Parkinson’s Disease exhibit symptoms such as tremors, mainly starting in one hand; slowness of movement; persistent stiffness in the limbs and trunk; and postural instability. There is no cure for Parkinson’s Disease, and there are no blood tests or imaging routines that can yield a diagnosis. Doctors make a clinical diagnosis primarily based on medical history and a neurological examination that includes an assessment of motor skills, balance, coordination, and reflexes. The primary pharmacological treatment for Parkinson’s Disease is to boost the levels of dopamine in the brain by increasing the supply of levodopa, which is a precursor of dopamine. The main ingredient of Comtan is entacapone, which has the effect of inhibiting the metabolism of levodopa and leaving more available in the blood so that it can cross the blood/brain barrier before it is converted into dopamine (which cannot cross the barrier).
