GENERIC NAME: ENTACAPONE - ORAL (en-TACK-up-own)

BRAND NAME(S): Comtan

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat Parkinson's Disease, in combination with levodopa-containing medicines. Entacapone must be used with your other Parkinson's Disease medicines in order to work.

HOW TO USE: This medicine is taken by mouth, with or without food Entacapone generally is taken at the same time as your levodopa/carbidopa medicine, or as directed. Follow all instructions carefully; you may need to decrease the dosage of your levodopa/carbidopa, depending on the amount of levodopa you currently take. Your levodopa/carbidopa dosing schedule may change as well. Do not suddenly stop using this drug: the dosage should be reduced gradually to minimize possible side effects. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information. The manufacturer advises a maximum of 8 doses per day.

SIDE EFFECTS: Diarrhea, drowsiness, upset stomach or dizziness may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these unlikely but serious side effects: mental/mood changes, fainting, muscle coordination problems. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects: muscle pain, change in the amount of urine. This drug may cause a harmless discoloration (brownish-orange color) of your urine. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, including: liver disease, any allergies. To minimize dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. Entacapone is not indicated for use in children. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.