Key takeaways
Entacapone (Comtan) and Tolcapone (Tasmar) are both COMT inhibitors used to treat Parkinson's disease (PD) by enhancing the effects of carbidopa/levodopa. However, there are some key differences between the two. Entacapone (Comtan) must be taken with every dose of carbidopa/levodopa, while Tolcapone (Tasmar) is taken three times a day. Entacapone (Comtan) and Tolcapone (Tasmar) are both available in both brand-name and generic forms. Tolcapone (Tasmar) has a risk of causing serious liver damage, requiring regular liver monitoring, and is not suitable for people with liver problems. Both medications can cause side effects like involuntary movements and nausea. Additionally, both Entacapone (Comtan) and Tolcapone (Tasmar) can make you very sleepy, but Tolcapone can also cause excessive dreaming.
