Comtan: Uses, Dosage, Demographic, Side Effects, Interactions, and Generic Options Comtan, also known as entacapone, is a medication used in combination with levodopa/carbidopa to help control the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. It is a central nervous system agent that works by blocking the enzyme that breaks down levodopa in the brain, prolonging its effects and improving motor function. In this article, we will provide an overview of Comtan, including its uses, dosage, demographic, side effects, interactions, and generic options. Uses: Comtan is used in combination with levodopa/carbidopa to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement. Comtan helps to prolong the effects of levodopa by inhibiting the breakdown of dopamine in the brain, which can improve symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement. Comtan is not a stand-alone treatment and should only be used in combination with levodopa/carbidopa. Dosage: The recommended starting dose of Comtan is 200 mg administered with each levodopa/carbidopa dose, up to a maximum of 8 times per day. The maximum recommended daily dose of Comtan is 1600 mg. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on individual patient response and tolerance. Demographic: Comtan is commonly used in adults with Parkinson's disease who are already taking levodopa/carbidopa and are experiencing wearing off of their medication. Comtan is not recommended for use in children. Side Effects: As with all medications, Comtan may cause side effects. The most commonly reported side effects of Comtan are gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea. Other common side effects include urine discoloration, sweating, dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth. Comtan can also cause more serious side effects, such as liver toxicity, hallucinations, confusion, and abnormal heart rhythms. Interactions: Comtan may interact with other medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, and medications that affect the liver. As such, it is important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking before starting Comtan. Generic Options: Entacapone is the generic name of Comtan and is available as a generic medication, which is usually less expensive than the brand-name version. It is important to note that generic medications may contain different inactive ingredients, which may affect how the medication works in your body. In conclusion, Comtan is a medication used in combination with levodopa/carbidopa to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. It is commonly used in adults who are experiencing the wearing off of their medication. Comtan may cause side effects, and it is important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking before starting Comtan. Generic options of Comtan are available, and they may differ in composition from the branded version. If you are considering Comtan as a treatment option for Parkinson's disease, consult with your healthcare provider to determine if it is right for you.