From the FDA Drug Label
ONGENTYS is a catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitor indicated as adjunctive treatment to levodopa/carbidopa in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) experiencing “off” episodes. The use of Ongentys (Opicapone) is as an adjunctive treatment to levodopa/carbidopa in patients with Parkinson’s disease experiencing “off” episodes 1.
From the Research
Ongentys (opicapone) is a medication used as an adjunctive treatment for Parkinson's disease in patients experiencing "wearing-off" symptoms while on levodopa/carbidopa therapy, with a standard dose of 50 mg taken once daily at bedtime, at least one hour before or after the levodopa/carbidopa dose, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 2.
Key Points
- Ongentys works as a catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitor, which prevents the breakdown of levodopa in the bloodstream, allowing more of it to reach the brain and extending its effectiveness.
- This helps reduce "off" periods when Parkinson's symptoms return between levodopa doses.
- Common side effects include dyskinesia (involuntary movements), constipation, dry mouth, and insomnia.
- Patients should be aware that Ongentys may interact with certain medications like MAO inhibitors and should inform their healthcare provider about all medications they're taking.
- It's essential to continue taking Ongentys as prescribed and not to stop without consulting a healthcare provider, as sudden discontinuation could worsen Parkinson's symptoms.
Clinical Evidence
- The efficacy and safety of opicapone have been demonstrated in several clinical trials, including the BIPARK 1 and BIPARK 2 trials, which showed that opicapone 50 mg once daily was an effective and generally well-tolerated adjunctive therapy to L-dopa/DDCI in adults with PD and end-of-dose motor fluctuations 2.
- A recent review of opicapone's clinical evidence and future perspectives also supports its use as an add-on to levodopa in Parkinson's disease patients with motor fluctuations, with beneficial effects maintained for 1 year 3.
Recommendations
- The use of Ongentys (opicapone) is recommended as an adjunctive treatment for Parkinson's disease in patients experiencing "wearing-off" symptoms while on levodopa/carbidopa therapy, due to its efficacy in reducing "off" periods and improving motor fluctuations, as well as its convenient once-daily dosing regimen 2, 4.