Ongentys (Opicapone)

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Information about Ongentys (Opicapone)

Ongentys is a medication that contains opicapone as its active ingredient. It is primarily used as an adjunctive treatment in patients with Parkinson’s disease who are already receiving levodopa therapy but still experience motor fluctuations (known as "off" episodes). Opicapone is a COMT (catechol-O-methyltransferase) inhibitor, which works by prolonging the effects of levodopa by blocking the breakdown of dopamine in the brain. This helps improve motor function and control symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Product Highlights

• Ongentys is indicated as an adjunctive treatment for Parkinson’s disease in patients who experience "off" episodes while on levodopa therapy. It is used when patients do not achieve adequate control of motor symptoms with levodopa alone, especially those who experience fluctuations in motor performance.
• Ongentys specifically targets the "off" periods of Parkinson’s disease, where the medication's effects wear off, causing symptoms like stiffness, tremor, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement).

Key Ingredient

• Opicapone

Key Benefits

• Ongentys effectively reduces the frequency and duration of "off" periods, helping patients maintain better control of their motor functions throughout the day.
• The once-daily oral dose simplifies treatment and improves patient compliance.
• By inhibiting COMT, opicapone helps increase the half-life of levodopa, allowing it to work more effectively and for a longer period of time.
• By reducing motor fluctuations, Ongentys helps improve overall quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s disease, allowing for better movement control and less unpredictability in symptom management.

Direction of Use

• Ongentys is typically taken once daily with or without food. The standard dose is 50 mg, but this may be adjusted by a healthcare provider based on the patient's needs and response to treatment.
• It is usually recommended to take Ongentys at night, preferably before bedtime, to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms overnight and into the morning.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for dose adjustments or to incorporate it into your existing Parkinson’s treatment regimen.

Safety Concerns

• Opicapone may affect liver function, so liver enzymes should be monitored during treatment. If significant liver impairment is detected, the drug should be discontinued.
• Since Ongentys is often used in combination with levodopa, it may increase the risk of dyskinesia (involuntary movements), a common side effect of long-term levodopa therapy.
• Some patients may experience a drop in blood pressure when starting Ongentys, particularly when standing up (orthostatic hypotension).
• Ongentys may interact with other medications, especially other dopaminergic agents or drugs that affect liver enzymes. Make sure to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements.
• Although rare, some patients may experience cognitive side effects such as confusion, hallucinations, or sleep disturbances. These should be reported to a healthcare provider.
• As with any medication, Ongentys may cause allergic reactions. If you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, or swelling, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

Avoid Ongentys (Opicapone) If

• You are allergic to opicapone or any of the ingredients in Ongentys.
• You have severe liver disease (such as cirrhosis) or significantly impaired liver function.
• You are taking other COMT inhibitors or medications that interact with opicapone.
• You have narrow-angle glaucoma or a history of severe eye problems.
• You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as the safety of Ongentys during pregnancy has not been well-established.
• You are breastfeeding, as it is not known whether opicapone passes into breast milk and could affect a nursing infant.
• You have a history of severe orthostatic hypotension (a significant drop in blood pressure when standing) or other cardiovascular issues without close monitoring.