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Home > Drug Category > Parkinson's Disease Medication > Eldepryl and Equivalent

Eldepryl Information

Eldepryl (Selegiline) is primarily used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is a neurological condition where the brain loses dopamine-producing cells. Dopamine is a chemical that helps control body movement and coordination. Therefore, when dopamine levels drop, like in Parkinson's disease, individuals develop tremors, muscle stiffness, slow movement, loss of coordination, and other related difficulties.

Eldepryl can be used alone, especially in the early stage of this disease, to delay the need to start conventional drugs like Levodopa. However, it is commonly used alongside medications containing dopamine, such as levodopa/carbidopa, when the symptoms start to fluctuate or the effects of the levodopa begin to wear off too quickly.

Eldepryl belongs to a class of drugs called Monoamine Oxidase B (MAO-B) inhibitors. In the brain, the enzyme Monoamine Oxidase B (MAO-B) breaks down the neurotransmitter dopamine. Selegiline essentially binds to the enzyme and blocks its activity. This effect keeps dopamine levels at optimal levels and prolongs the action of naturally produced dopamine or levodopa-supplied dopamine. This, in turn, helps alleviate the movement symptoms (such as tremor, rigidity, and slowed movement) associated with Parkinson's.

Eldepryl Side Effects

Like all medications, selegiline appears to have a range of possible side effects. Some common side effects of this medication include dizziness, abdominal pain, dry mouth, mouth sores, nausea, stomach upset, trouble sleeping, and headache. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Increased blood pressure;
• Serotonin syndrome with symptoms such as fever, sweating, flushing, confusion, agitation, nausea, vomiting, and seizures;
• Uncontrollable, involuntary movements (Dyskinesia) such as shakiness, stiffness, or jerkiness;
• Unusual or compulsive behaviors such as unusual and uncontrolled urges (compulsions), including gambling, sex, shopping, or eating

Eldepryl Precautions

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to selegiline, other ingredients in Eldepryl, or any other medicines. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Abdominal problems such as peptic ulcer disease;
• Adrenal gland tumor (pheochromocytoma);
• Bleeding disorders;
• Eye conditions such as glaucoma;
• Heart disease, including rhythm abnormalities;
• High blood pressure;
• Kidney problems;
• Liver problems;
• Mental disorders such as schizophrenia;
• Migraines or other types of headaches;
• Stroke;
• Thyroid disorders

This medication can cause dizziness and drowsiness, so avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing other potentially hazardous tasks until you know how it affects you. If you drink alcohol, ask your doctor for advice. Your doctor may recommend that you not drink alcohol while you are on this medicine. Also, if you are having surgery or a dental procedure, tell the doctor performing your treatment that you are taking selegiline, as it can interfere with the action of some anaesthetic drugs. Eldepryl should not be stopped abruptly, especially when combined with levodopa, as doing so can lead to withdrawal or rebound symptoms. This medication should not be used in children.

Eldepryl is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy due to the risk of hypertensive crisis, especially in women with hypertension in pregnancy. You should also not breastfeed while taking this medication due to the potential risk to the breastfed infant. In fact, breastfeeding is not recommended for up to 7 days after taking the last dose of selegiline. Some medications, such as sumatriptan, sympathomimetics, and pain killers, should not be used along with selegiline due to the risk of severe drug interactions and adverse effects. Therefore, you must inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including herbal medicines and supplements, that you are taking before starting Eldepryl to prevent drug interactions.

Eldepryl comes in tablet form with varying dosages. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose for your medical condition and also guide how long you should continue to take this medicine. Take each tablet orally as directed by your doctor. It is recommended to avoid taking this medication at night, as it can cause difficulty sleeping. Also, avoid certain foods containing tyramine, such as mature cheese, broad beans, as they can increase the risk of hypertensive crisis. Do not miss a dose or exceed the prescribed dosage. Store this medication in a cool and dry place, away from children and pets.

Do I need a prescription to order Eldepryl?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Eldepryl.