tolcapone

• Risk factors: Liver problems | History of liver damage from tolcapone (Tasmar)

Tolcapone (Tasmar) can cause serious liver damage, which can be life-threatening. Potentially dangerous medications like this should only be used if benefits outweigh the risk. Tolcapone (Tasmar) should never be used if you have liver problems or a history of liver damage from tolcapone (Tasmar). Your provider will monitor your labs closely to check on your liver. Contact your provider right away if you have yellowing of the skin or eyes, pale colored stools, tiredness, and low appetite. These can be signs of liver problems. If you don't see any results within 3 weeks of starting tolcapone (Tasmar), let your provider know as they might have you stop taking the medication.

• Risk factors: History of drowsiness | History of sleep problems | Taking sedatives or medications that make you drowsy

Medications, like tolcapone (Tasmar), that raise the levels of levodopa and dopamine in your body can cause you to suddenly fall asleep, even if you don't feel sleepy. Avoid driving or doing things that require you to focus until you know how this medication affects you. Take extra care if you have a history of sleepiness or falling asleep suddenly in the past. Let your provider know if you feel very sleepy during the daytime or if you fall asleep during activities where you need to concentrate.

Sometimes, people taking tolcapone (Tasmar) have a sudden drop of blood pressure when they sit or stand up from a lying down position. This can lead to serious falls or fainting. If this already happens to you, it might get worse when you start the medication. Let your provider know if you have a fall, faint, or experience dizziness when changing positions. It can help if you rise slowly and steady yourself on a firm object, like a sturdy nightstand, whenever you're getting up.

• Risk factors: History of certain mental health conditions

Tolcapone (Tasmar) and medications that raise your dopamine levels can cause hallucinations and changes in behavior and thinking. There have been reports of paranoia, delusions, confusion, aggressive behavior, uneasiness, trouble sleeping, lots of dreaming, and less awareness of your surroundings. Usually, these symptoms occur shortly after you start taking these medications or after your dose is raised. Let your provider know if this happens to you; they might lower your dose, which can help.

There have been reports of people having lower impulse control while taking PD medications such as tolcapone (Tasmar). This can include strong sexual or gambling urges, urges to spend a lot of money, and binge eating. Talk to your provider if these urges start to have a negative impact on your life. Lowering your dose or stopping the medication can help.

Some people taking tolcapone (Tasmar) have reported severe muscle damage that can lead to kidney damage. Let your provider know right away if you experience muscle aches, soreness, or cramping, or if you have dark-colored urine, because these can be signs of serious muscle damage.