WARNING

Tasmar, also known as tolcapone, is a medication used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. It works by inhibiting an enzyme called catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), which helps increase the effectiveness of levodopa, another medication commonly used for Parkinson’s disease.

While Tasmar can be effective in managing Parkinson’s symptoms, it is associated with some risks and side effects. One significant risk is the potential for hepatotoxicity, which means it can cause liver damage. In rare cases, this can lead to severe liver failure. Due to these risks, Tasmar is typically reserved for use in patients who have not responded adequately to other Parkinson’s medications or who require additional symptom control.

Patients taking Tasmar should undergo regular monitoring of liver function, and any signs of liver problems, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or persistent nausea, should be reported to a healthcare professional promptly.

It’s essential for individuals considering or currently taking Tasmar to discuss their medical history and any existing liver conditions with their healthcare provider. Additionally, close monitoring and adherence to prescribed dosage guidelines are crucial to minimize the risk of adverse effects associated with Tasmar. As with any medication, the benefits and risks should be carefully weighed in consultation with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each individual.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Tasmar (tolcapone) is prescribed to individuals with Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement control. It is used in combination with levodopa and carbidopa, two other medications commonly prescribed for Parkinson’s disease. Tasmar belongs to a class of drugs known as catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors, and it works by increasing the levels of levodopa in the brain. Levodopa is a precursor to dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is deficient in Parkinson’s disease.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s a brief overview of how Tasmar is typically used:

• Combination Therapy: Tasmar is not used as a standalone treatment. It is prescribed in combination with levodopa and carbidopa.
• Dosage: The dosage of Tasmar can vary based on individual patient needs and response to treatment. Typically, it is taken multiple times a day.
• Liver Function Monitoring: Regular monitoring of liver function is essential while taking Tasmar due to the risk of hepatotoxicity (liver damage). Liver function tests are usually performed before starting the medication and periodically during treatment.
• Food Intake: Tasmar can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may help reduce the risk of nausea, a common side effect.
• Adherence to Prescribed Dosage: It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and administration schedule as directed by the healthcare provider. Changes to the dosage should only be made under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
• Report Side Effects: Individuals taking Tasmar should promptly report any side effects or signs of liver problems, such as jaundice, dark urine, or persistent nausea, to their healthcare provider.
• Individualized Treatment Plan: The use of Tasmar is determined on a case-by-case basis. Healthcare providers consider the patient’s overall health, medical history, and the severity of Parkinson’s symptoms when prescribing Tasmar.

It’s important for individuals prescribed Tasmar to have regular check-ups with their healthcare provider to assess the medication’s effectiveness and monitor for any potential side effects or complications. As with any medication, the decision to prescribe Tasmar is made based on the balance of potential benefits and risks for each patient.

Other uses for this medicine

Tasmar (tolcapone) is primarily used for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and is not commonly prescribed for other medical conditions. Its primary role is as a catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitor in combination with levodopa and carbidopa to enhance the effectiveness of levodopa therapy.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions and considerations for Tasmar include:

• Liver Function Monitoring: Due to the risk of hepatotoxicity (liver damage), regular monitoring of liver function is essential. Liver function tests should be conducted before initiating Tasmar therapy and periodically throughout treatment.
• Patient Selection: Tasmar is generally reserved for patients with Parkinson’s disease who have not responded adequately to other medications or require additional symptom control. The decision to prescribe Tasmar is based on a careful assessment of the patient’s medical history and overall health.
• Individualized Treatment Plan: Treatment plans with Tasmar are individualized, taking into account factors such as the severity of Parkinson’s symptoms, the patient’s response to other medications, and their overall health status.
• Potential Drug Interactions: Tasmar may interact with other medications. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Tasmar during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been well studied. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare professional if pregnancy is planned or if the patient is breastfeeding.
• Adherence to Prescribed Dosage: Patients should strictly adhere to the prescribed dosage and administration schedule. Changes to the dosage or discontinuation of Tasmar should only be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
• Report Side Effects: Any unusual or severe side effects, including signs of liver problems (such as jaundice, dark urine, or persistent nausea), should be reported promptly to a healthcare professional.
• Individual Health Conditions: Patients with pre-existing liver conditions or a history of liver disease may require special consideration, and the use of Tasmar in such cases should be carefully monitored.

As always, it’s crucial for individuals prescribed Tasmar to communicate openly with their healthcare provider, providing a comprehensive medical history and discussing any concerns or potential side effects. This helps ensure the safe and effective use of the medication in managing Parkinson’s disease symptoms.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Dietary Instructions:

• Food Intake: Tasmar can be taken with or without food. Taking it with food may help reduce the risk of nausea, a common side effect.
• Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol consumption may exacerbate the risk of liver problems. It’s advisable to limit or avoid alcohol while taking Tasmar.
• Tyramine-Rich Foods: While there are no specific dietary restrictions with Tasmar, patients taking levodopa, which is often used in combination with Tasmar, may be advised to moderate their intake of tyramine-rich foods. These include aged cheeses, certain meats, and fermented or pickled products.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take it as Soon as Possible: If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• Skip the Missed Dose if Close to the Next: If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do Not Double Dose: Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Tasmar (tolcapone) can cause various side effects, and it’s important to be aware of them. Common and less severe side effects may include:

• Nausea: A common side effect, taking Tasmar with food may help alleviate nausea.
• Dyskinesia: Involuntary, uncontrolled movements may occur, especially if Tasmar is used in combination with levodopa.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Changes in blood pressure can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly when standing up quickly.
• Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping may occur as a side effect of Tasmar.
• Diarrhea or Constipation: Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea or constipation, may be experienced.
• Hallucinations: Some individuals may experience hallucinations or vivid dreams.
• Orthostatic Hypotension: Tasmar may cause a drop in blood pressure upon standing, leading to dizziness.
• Yellowing of the Skin or Eyes (Jaundice): Though rare, Tasmar has been associated with hepatotoxicity, leading to jaundice.

It’s important to note that Tasmar has a black box warning due to the risk of severe liver damage, including liver failure. Signs of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, persistent nausea, or abdominal pain, should be reported to a healthcare professional immediately.

In some cases, the combination of Tasmar with levodopa and carbidopa can increase the risk of dyskinesias and other side effects. It’s crucial to discuss any concerns or side effects with your healthcare provider promptly.

This list is not exhaustive, and individual responses to medications can vary. Patients should report any unexpected or severe side effects to their healthcare provider, who can then determine the most appropriate course of action, whether it involves adjusting the dosage or considering alternative treatments. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding the use of Tasmar and management of potential side effects.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Tasmar:

• Storage: Keep Tasmar in its original container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Avoid Exposure: Protect Tasmar from light and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets: Store Tasmar in a location where children and pets cannot access it.
• Disposal: Dispose of Tasmar in accordance with local regulations. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into drains unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Emergency Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, or seizures, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
• Contact Poison Control: In the United States, you can contact the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on overdose management.
• Provide Information: Be prepared to provide information about the medication, the amount taken, and the person’s age and weight.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Regularly monitor liver function as directed by your healthcare provider. Liver function tests may be conducted before starting Tasmar and periodically throughout treatment.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking Tasmar. This includes dentists, surgeons, and emergency medical personnel.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Follow Instructions: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage, administration, and any dietary recommendations while taking Tasmar.
• Routine Check-ups: Attend scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for routine check-ups and evaluations of the medication’s effectiveness and any potential side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of Tasmar with your healthcare provider.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Tasmar may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

Always follow the guidance provided by your healthcare provider and the medication’s prescribing information. If you have any concerns or questions, consult your healthcare professional for personalized advice and information related to your specific health situation.