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

Xadago Information

Xadago (Safinamide Methansulfonate) is used in the management 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. Xadago is typically used as an adjunctive treatment (an add-on therapy) to levodopa/carbidopa for adults with Parkinson's disease who are experiencing these motor fluctuations or "off" episodes, which occur when the effects of the levodopa begin to wear off in between doses.

It belongs to the class of medications called monoamine oxidase B inhibitors. It works by blocking monoamine oxidase, the enzyme that breaks down dopamine in the brain, thereby increasing and prolonging dopamine activity. It also blocks abnormal glutamate release, which further stabilizes motor function. By preserving dopamine and moderating glutamate overactivity, safinamide reduces motor fluctuations and extends the active period of levodopa action, with a lower risk of troublesome side effects such as dyskinesias.

Xadago Side Effects

Like all medications, safinamide appears to have a range of possible side effects. Some common side effects of this medication include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, lightheadedness (especially when standing up too quickly), nausea, insomnia, and falls. 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;
• Excessive sleepiness and sudden onset of sleep;
• High blood pressure;
• Impulse control disorders such as pathological gambling, compulsive shopping;
• Neurological or mental disorders with symptoms like hallucinations, compulsive behaviors, confusion, uncontrolled movements of the body, depression, nervousness, and seizures;
• Problems with retina in your eye (retinal changes), causing poor vision;
• Serotonin syndrome with symptoms such as fever, sweating, flushing, confusion, agitation, nausea, vomiting, and seizures;
• Uncontrolled movements

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Xadago Precautions

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to safinamide methansulfonate, other ingredients in Xadago, 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:
• Eye conditions such as uveitis or retinopathy;
• High blood pressure;
• Liver problems;
• Mental disorders such as schizophrenia;
• Migraines or other types of headaches

Inform your doctor if you or those around you observe unusual urges or cravings that lead to behaviors you typically wouldn't engage in. This may include difficulty resisting impulses that could harm yourself or others, such as addictive gambling, excessive eating or spending, heightened sex drive, or increased sexual thoughts. These behaviors are known as impulse control disorders, and your doctor may need to reassess your treatments based on this information. Like many Parkinson's drugs, Xadago can cause sudden sleep onset, sometimes without warning, during daily activities. Do not drive, operate machinery, or engage in dangerous activities until you know how this medication affects you.

This medication is not for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Women of childbearing potential using this medication are advised to use an effective form of contraception. Xadago is not recommended for use in children and adolescents, due to the lack of data on safety and efficacy in this age group. Xadago must not be taken with certain medications because the combination can lead to serious adverse drug interactions. For example, taking this medication with certain antidepressants such as fluoxetine can cause serotonin syndrome, which could be life-threatening. Therefore, you must inform your healthcare provider about all medicines, including herbal medications and supplements, that you are taking before starting safinamide to prevent drug interactions.

Take Xadago tablets orally once daily, with or without food, but as directed by your doctor. Treatment usually starts at a low dose and increases only if needed, as determined by your doctor. Avoid eating foods rich in tyramine, such as aged cheeses and cured meats, as blood pressure can dangerously rise if Xadago is combined with high-tyramine foods. Do not stop taking Xadago without first talking to your doctor. Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Do I need a prescription to order Xadago?

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