Opicapone (Ongentys) is a selective and reversible peripheral catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitor. It was first approved in the United States in 2020 and is mainly used as an adjunctive therapy to levodopa/carbidopa to help patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) improve "off" period symptoms. As a strictly controlled prescription drug, its circulation and use are subject to multiple regulatory restrictions.

What Are the Purchase Channels for Opicapone (Ongentys)?

Overseas Purchase

Patients can choose to consult and purchase opicapone at hospital pharmacies or regular pharmacies in countries or regions where the drug has been marketed.

Since drug prices may be affected by factors such as regional differences and exchange rate fluctuations, patients need to make budget and plans before purchasing.

Purchase via Medical Service Institutions

Patients can consult domestic overseas medical service institutions that cooperate with international pharmacies or pharmaceutical companies.

These institutions can usually provide legal import channels and offer professional consultation and guidance.

Precautions for Purchasing and Using Opicapone (Ongentys)

Strict Contraindication Screening

Patients who are concurrently using non-selective monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors.

Patients with a history of pheochromocytoma, paraganglioma, or other catecholamine-secreting tumors.

Dosage Adjustments for Special Populations

Patients with hepatic impairment: For patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B), the recommended dose is 25 mg, taken orally once daily before bedtime.

Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) should avoid using the drug.

Patients with renal impairment: Patients with end-stage renal disease (CLcr < 15 mL/min) should avoid using the drug.

Patients with mild, moderate, or severe renal impairment do not require dosage adjustment but need close monitoring.

Correct Medication Administration Method

The recommended dose is 50 mg, taken orally once daily before bedtime.

No food should be consumed 1 hour before and at least 1 hour after taking the medication.

Identification of Authentic Opicapone (Ongentys)

Standard Features of Packaging and Labeling

50 mg capsules: Dark blue opaque cap and dark pink opaque body.

25 mg capsules: Light blue opaque cap and light pink opaque body.

The capsule shell contains: FD&C Blue No. 2, FD&C Red No. 3, gelatin, and titanium dioxide.

Confirmation of Drug Ingredients

Active ingredient: Opicapone.

Inactive ingredients: Lactose, magnesium stearate, pregelatinized starch, and sodium starch glycolate.