Ongentys is a prescription medicine used to treat Parkinson’s disease. It comes in the form of a capsule and contains the active ingredient, opicapone. This medication is often prescribed alongside other Parkinson’s medications, such as levodopa and carbidopa. In this article, we will discuss the uses, benefits, side effects, and warnings of using Ongentys.
Uses
Ongentys is primarily used to treat Parkinson’s disease, which is a chronic and progressive disorder of the nervous system. Specifically, it is used to help manage the symptoms of motor fluctuations experienced by people with Parkinson’s disease who are already taking levodopa and carbidopa. These motor fluctuations include “off” episodes, which are periods when symptoms are not well-controlled, and “on” episodes, when symptoms are well-controlled.
Benefits
The primary benefit of Ongentys is that it can help to improve the control of symptoms of Parkinson’s disease in people experiencing motor fluctuations. In clinical trials, people taking Ongentys experienced a reduction in “off” time of up to 2 hours per day, compared to those not taking the medication. This means they were able to spend more time with their symptoms well-controlled, which can greatly improve their quality of life. Furthermore, this medication has a long half-life of over 25 hours, which means it can provide a continued levodopa-sparing effect throughout the day.
Side Effects
As with any medication, there are potential side effects associated with taking Ongentys. Some of the most common side effects reported in clinical trials include:
– Dyskinesia (abnormal, involuntary movements)
– Dizziness
– Constipation
– Dry mouth
– Headache
– Insomnia
– Nausea
– Orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure upon standing)
– Urinary tract infection
These side effects are generally mild to moderate in severity, and many people are able to tolerate them well. However, if you experience any severe side effects or those that are persistent, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Warnings
There are several warnings associated with taking Ongentys. First, people with liver disease should not take this medication, as it can worsen liver function. Additionally, Ongentys may interact with certain other medications, including certain antidepressants and antipsychotics, so it is important to discuss all medications you are taking with your healthcare provider before starting Ongentys. Finally, because Ongentys can cause dizziness and orthostatic hypotension, you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
FAQs
Ongentys is used to treat motor fluctuations in people with Parkinson’s disease who are already taking levodopa and carbidopa.
The primary benefit of taking Ongentys is that it can help to improve control of Parkinson’s disease symptoms by reducing “off” time. It also has a long half-life, which provides a continued levodopa-sparing effect throughout the day.
Common side effects of Ongentys include dyskinesia, dizziness, constipation, dry mouth, headache, insomnia, nausea, orthostatic hypotension, and urinary tract infection.
People with liver disease should not take Ongentys, as it can worsen liver function.
Ongentys may interact with certain other medications, the most severe side effects are related to liver problems and patients are advised to report side effects to their healthcare provider immediately.
