Tasmar is a medication that contains the active ingredient tolcapone. It belongs to a class of drugs called COMT inhibitors (catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibitors) and is primarily used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Tasmar helps to increase the levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in movement control, in the brain.
Dosage and Administration:
Tasmar is available in 100 mg tablets. The dosage and frequency of Tasmar will be determined by your doctor, and it is important to follow their instructions carefully. The usual starting dose is 100 mg taken three times a day, with each dose taken alongside each levodopa/carbidopa dose.
The maximum recommended daily dose of Tasmar is 200 mg, and this should not be exceeded. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response to treatment and any side effects experienced. It is important to take Tasmar at regular intervals to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body.
Tasmar tablets should be swallowed whole with water and can be taken with or without food. It is recommended to avoid taking Tasmar with a high-fat meal as it may affect the absorption of the medication.
Usage Information:
Tasmar is usually prescribed in combination with levodopa/carbidopa, which is the standard treatment for Parkinson’s disease. Levodopa is converted to dopamine in the brain, and carbidopa helps prevent the breakdown of levodopa before it reaches the brain.
Tasmar is typically added to the levodopa/carbidopa regimen when patients experience a wearing-off effect, characterized by the return of Parkinson’s symptoms before the next dose of levodopa/carbidopa. Tasmar helps to prolong the effect of levodopa by inhibiting the COMT enzyme, which breaks down levodopa in the body.
It is important to note that Tasmar should only be used as directed by your doctor. Do not adjust the dose or stop taking Tasmar without consulting your healthcare provider.
Possible Side Effects:
Tasmar may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness, drowsiness, and abnormal liver function tests. Rare but serious side effects may include liver problems, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or persistent nausea.
If you experience any severe side effects or allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, seek immediate medical attention.
Precautions:
Before taking Tasmar, inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially liver disease or a history of liver problems. Tasmar can cause liver damage, and regular liver function tests may be required during treatment.
Inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with Tasmar and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.
In conclusion, Tasmar is a medication used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. It contains tolcapone and works by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. Tasmar is typically used in combination with levodopa/carbidopa to manage symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. The usual dose is 100 mg three times a day, as prescribed by your doctor. It is important to take Tasmar as directed, be aware of potential side effects, and inform your doctor of any existing medical conditions or other medications you are taking. Regular monitoring of liver function may be necessary during treatment with Tasmar.