Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Opicapone is administered in conjunction with levodopa and carbidopa to address the ‘wearing-off’ symptoms that occur towards the end of a dose cycle in Parkinson’s disease. Functioning as a catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitor, opicapone enhances the efficacy of levodopa and carbidopa. It accomplishes this by facilitating a higher quantity of these medications to reach the brain, where their therapeutic effects are exerted.
Uses and Dosage
Opicapone is available in capsule form for oral ingestion. Typically, it is taken once daily at bedtime and should be consumed at least one hour before or after a meal.
Strictly follow the prescribed regimen for opicapone. Avoid adjusting the dosage—neither increasing nor decreasing it—nor should you exceed the frequency directed by your doctor.
While opicapone manages the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, it does not provide a cure. Continue taking opicapone even if you are experiencing relief. Discontinuing opicapone should only occur under the guidance of your doctor. Abrupt cessation could lead to a serious syndrome characterized by symptoms like fever, rigid muscles, atypical body movements, and confusion. Your doctor will likely need to gradually reduce your opicapone dosage and adjust the dosages of your other Parkinson’s disease medications.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- constipation
- dry mouth
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- dizziness
- weight loss
- unusual or uncontrolled body movements
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- hallucinations
- delusions
- aggressive behavior
- fainting
Caution
Prior to commencing opicapone, notify your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you possess any known allergies to it or if you have allergies to other substances. This product may encompass inert components capable of triggering allergic reactions or other complications.
Before initiating this medication, relay your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, with special emphasis on kidney problems, liver problems, mental/mood issues, sleep disorders, uncontrolled abrupt movements, as well as specific types of tumors (such as pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma).
This drug could potentially induce dizziness or drowsiness. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana could exacerbate these sensations. Activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, should be approached cautiously until you are confident of your capacity to undertake them safely.
During pregnancy, the utilization of this medication is recommended only when unequivocally necessary. Deliberate the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
Whether this medication transfers into breast milk remains uncertain. Consulting your doctor prior to breastfeeding is advised.
Form and Strength
Ongentys is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Ongentys capsule:
- 50mg
FAQ
When is the best time to take Ongentys?
You should take Ongentys once a day at bedtime. You should do this at least one hour before or after your levodopa medication.
Can you drink alcohol with Ongentys?
You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with Ongentys.
Resources
- https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/information-and-support/comt-inhibitors-entacapone-opicapone#:~:text=You%20should%20take%20opicapone%20once,amount%20of%20levodopa%20you%20take
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/opicapone-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20489639?p=1
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-177013/ongentys-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a620059.html
- https://www.drugs.com/ongentys.html
