Tasmar (Tolcapone)

Do’s

• The dosage of Tasmar is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate starting dose for you. Follow their instructions regarding the dosage.
• Tasmar is taken orally, usually three times a day. It can be taken with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. Take it at the same times each day to help you remember.
• In most cases, you will start with a low dose of Tasmar. After three weeks of treatment, your healthcare provider may increase the dosage if they believe you will benefit from a higher dose.
• Use Tasmar regularly to get the most benefit from it. 
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition lasts or gets worse. If your Parkinson's symptoms are not adequately controlled, your healthcare provider may need to adjust your treatment plan.

Don’ts

• Do not skip doses or suddenly stop taking the medication unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider. Suddenly stopping Tasmar can cause a worsening of Parkinson's symptoms.

Common Side Effects: 

• Diarrhea
• Dyskinesia (abnormal involuntary movements)
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure when standing up)
• Vomiting
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Dystonia (muscle contractions)
• Headache
• Muscle cramps
• Anorexia (loss of appetite)
• Increased dream activity
• Syncope (fainting)
• Abdominal pain
• Constipation
• Falling
• Fatigue
• Diaphoresis (excessive sweating)
• Urine discoloration
• Xerostomia (dry mouth) 

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individual experiences may vary. If you have any concerns or questions about the side effects of Tasmar, consult with your healthcare provider.

Tasmar can rarely cause the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to kidney failure. If you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, fever, unusual tiredness, or dark-colored urine, contact your healthcare provider immediately. 

Tasmar can also cause liver failure, which may manifest as unusual tiredness, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Regular liver function tests may be necessary while taking Tasmar.

Tasmar should not be used if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days, as it can lead to a dangerous drug interaction. MAO inhibitors include medications such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, and tranylcypromine. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Tasmar may cause increased sleepiness or the tendency to fall asleep during the day. Avoid driving or engaging in activities that require alertness until you have discussed this effect with your healthcare provider. The risk of sleepiness is increased when using alcohol or other medications that can cause drowsiness.

This is not an exhaustive list of warnings and precautions associated with Tasmar. Consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss any specific concerns you may have.