What Are the Newest Medications Available for Parkinson’s?

Exploring the Latest Advancements in Parkinson’s Disease Treatment:
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects millions of people around the world. While there is currently no cure, medical advancements continue to improve the quality of life for those living with PD. If you're asking, “What are the newest medications available for Parkinson’s?”, you’re not alone. It’s a common and important question among patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers alike.
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Let’s take a look at the most recent breakthroughs in medication and how they’re helping individuals manage Parkinson’s more effectively.

New Medications on the Horizon:
In recent years, several new drugs have been approved by the FDA to address symptoms of Parkinson’s disease or the complications that arise from long-term use of traditional treatments like Levodopa. Here are a few of the latest:

• Opicapone (Ongentys):
  Approved in 2020, Opicapone is a COMT inhibitor that enhances the effects of Levodopa by helping it last longer in the body. It’s taken once daily and is especially beneficial for patients experiencing “off” episodes when Levodopa stops working before the next dose.
• Istradefylline (Nourianz):
  This medication is the first in its class (an adenosine A2A receptor antagonist) and was approved in 2019. It’s used as an add-on therapy for patients who experience “off” episodes while on Levodopa/Carbidopa. Istradefylline works by targeting a different pathway in the brain, helping to smooth out motor fluctuations.
• Inbrija (Levodopa Inhalation Powder):
  Inbrija was approved in late 2018 and provides a fast-acting option for people experiencing sudden “off” episodes. It allows patients to inhale Levodopa directly into their lungs for rapid relief of motor symptoms.
  

Advanced Therapies in Development:
Researchers are also exploring new drug delivery systems and formulations, including:

• Extended-release formulations of existing drugs to reduce dosing frequency and enhance consistency.
• Gene therapies that aim to modify disease progression by targeting the underlying causes of PD.
• Neuroprotective agents that may slow or halt disease progression, which are currently undergoing clinical trials.

Living Well with Parkinson’s:
While new medications can improve symptom management, living well with Parkinson’s requires a comprehensive approach that includes exercise, nutrition, mental wellness, and community support.
That’s where the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) comes in.

For over twenty-five years, PASWFL has provided free programs and services that improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s and their families. Every week, the organization offers more than 25 free programs and support groups, including movement classes, educational events, and caregiver support. These services are designed to empower, educate, and connect those touched by PD.

There are no fees to become a member, and you can sign up online today.

Join the Community:
Click here to sign up for PASWFL’s newsletter
Click here to become a member (free and confidential)
To learn more, visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org. PASWFL is here to help you and your loved ones live well with Parkinson’s—today and into the future.