Ongentys
Prescription Required
Indications
Ongentys is a prescription medicine used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.
Ongentys is a catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitor, which prevents the breakdown of levodopa so that more of it is available to be converted to dopamine in the brain.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is depleted in patients with Parkinson’s disease, causing movement-related symptoms such as trembling, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination.
Ongentys is used in combination with levodopa and carbidopa in adult patients experiencing off episodes of Parkinson’s disease.
Use and Dosage
Take this medication by mouth on an empty stomach as directed by your doctor, usually once daily at bedtime. Do not eat food for 1 hour before and at least 1 hour after taking opicapone. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Do not suddenly stop taking this medication unless instructed by your doctor. Doing so may cause side effects (such as fever, severe muscle stiffness) or make your Parkinson’s symptoms get worse.
Side Effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Ongentys: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- A light-headed feeling, like you might pass out
- Confusion, hallucinations (hearing or seeing something that is not there)
- Aggression, agitation, or unusual thoughts or behavior
- Uncontrolled muscle movements in your face (chewing, lip smacking, frowning, tongue movement, blinking or eye movement)
- Worsening tremors, stiffness, or muscle spasms
You may have increased sexual urges, unusual urges to gamble, or other intense urges while taking this medicine. Talk with your doctor if this occurs.
Common Ongentys side effects may include:
- Feeling light-headed
- Uncontrolled muscle movement
- Abnormal blood tests
- Constipation
- Weight loss
When you stop taking Ongentys, watch for withdrawal symptoms such as: stiff muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, or feeling like you might pass out.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur.
Cautions
Before taking opicapone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, liver problems, mental/mood problems (such as psychosis, hallucinations), sleep disorder, uncontrolled sudden movements, certain types of tumors (such as pheochromocytoma, paraganglioma).
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Form and Strengths
Ongentys is available in the following form and strengths:
- Ongentys Capsule:
- 50 mg
FAQ
What happens if I miss a dose?
Skip the missed dose and use your next dose the following night. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention.
What to avoid?
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries.
Resources:
Additional information
Brand Name: |
Ongentys |
|---|---|
Scientific Name: |
Opicapone |
Other Names: |
Ongentys |
Strength(s): |
50mg |
Quantities Available: |
90 |
Formulation: |
Capsule |
