TASMAR (TOLCAPONE)

Tasmar Description

Tasmar may be prescribed along with Levodopa and Carbidopa to treat Parkinson’s disease. Many people taking Levodopa for Parkinson's have problems with the effects of the Levodopa wearing off between scheduled doses, causing symptoms to return or worsen. Although Parkinson's disease can't be cured, there are treatment options including medication like Tasmar.

Meds That Work Together Can Help Decrease Symptoms of PD

Tasmar works by increasing the effectiveness of Levodopa. Tasmar inhibits a certain enzyme called catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) that activates the metabolism of Levodopa into 3-O-methyldopa. This action provides a prolonged maintenance of serum Levodopa levels, possibly providing a longer clinical response to Levodopa treatments. It is prescribed for people who have had Parkinson's disease for a while and whose symptoms deteriorate between doses of their medications.

Conditions Treated by Tasmar

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a central nervous system disease that is degenerative in nature. It is characterized by the progressive loss of muscle control, which leads to trembling of the limbs and head when you rest. It also leads to stiffness, slowness and impaired balance of the body. As these symptoms become worse, it becomes more difficult to walk, talk and complete simple tasks.

Most of the movement symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are caused by a lack of dopamine. Dopamine is necessary for several important brain functions. It helps with behavior, signals for voluntary movement, motivation, as well as a wide range of other functions.

Before Tasmar is Prescribed

You may have increased sexual urges, unusual urges to gamble, or other intense urges while taking this medication. Consult your doctor if this occurs. You should only use Tasmar if you are experiencing problems with your Levodopa wearing off between doses.

Tasmar Precautions

Tasmar can have serious effects on your liver. You will need regular blood tests to monitor this. You should watch for signs that Tasmar may be affecting your liver, such as: dark urine; itching; light-colored stools; loss of appetite; nausea (continuing); tenderness in upper right part of abdomen; unusual drowsiness, dullness, or feeling sluggish; unusual tiredness or weakness; or yellow eyes or skin.

Possible Side Effects of Tasmar

• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Hallucinations
• Sleeping problems
• Abnormal muscle movements

In rare cases, Tasmar can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to kidney failure. Call your doctor right away if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness especially if you also have fever, unusual tiredness, and dark colored urine.