A patient has a new order for a catechol ortho-methyltransferase (COMT)inhibitor as part of treatment for Parkinson's disease.The nurse recognizes that which of these is an advantage of this drug class?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

COMT inhibitors are used in conjunction with levodopa/carbidopa to prolong the effects of levodopa and reduce the wearing-off effects that can occur with long-term use of levodopa. They do not have a shorter duration of action, do not cause less gastrointestinal distress, and do not have a slower onset than traditional Parkinson's disease drugs.

A Patient Has a New Order for a Catechol Ortho-Methyltransferase