Add-On Rx for Parkinson’s Gets Green Light

(RxWiki News) The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new medication to treat Parkinson’s disease (PD).

This new approval can be found under the brand name Nourianz and the active ingredient istradefylline. The FDA approved it as an add-on treatment to levodopa/carbidopa — specifically for “off” episodes.

An “off” episode is a time when the current medications are not working well for the patient and, as a result, the patient experiences PD symptoms. These symptoms include tremor and difficulty walking.

PD is considered the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in the US. In fact, around 50,000 Americans are diagnosed with PD each year. Furthermore, around 1 million Americans are living with PD.

The FDA approved Nourianz after istradefylline was found effective in four placebo-controlled clinical studies.

Common side effects included constipation, hallucinations, involuntary muscle movement, nausea and insomnia. This medication may also cause dizziness.

Istradefylline is not to be used during pregnancy. While on this medication, your health care provider will monitor you for involuntary muscle movements and changes in behavior. Nourianz is available in tablet form and is typically given once a day.

This medication’s approval was granted to Kyowa Kirin, Inc.

Speak with your health care provider if you have any questions about PD.

Written by Anyssa Garza, PharmD, BCMAS