Information about Eldepryl (Selegiline)
Eldepryl is the brand name for selegiline, a medication that belongs to the class of monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) inhibitors. It is primarily used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease and, in some cases, depression. Selegiline works by blocking the MAO-B enzyme, which normally breaks down dopamine in the brain, thereby helping to increase dopamine levels. By preventing the breakdown of dopamine, Eldepryl helps increase the availability of this neurotransmitter, improving motor function in Parkinson’s disease patients and contributing to mood stabilization in depression.
Product Highlights
- Eldepryl is primarily used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, often in combination with other medications like levodopa to help improve motor symptoms.
- It is also sometimes used off-label for the treatment of depression, especially in patients who have not responded to other antidepressant medications.
- Additionally, selegiline can help delay the need for levodopa therapy in some Parkinson’s patients by preserving dopamine function.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Improves motor function in patients with Parkinson’s disease by increasing dopamine availability in the brain.
- May delay the need for levodopa therapy in Parkinson’s patients, helping to reduce motor fluctuations over time.
- In some cases, enhances the effects of levodopa and can help reduce the dose required of levodopa.
- Helps with mood stabilization in patients with depression (off-label use), especially when other treatments have been ineffective.
- Minimal side effects in comparison to other treatments, especially when used at low doses.
Direction of Use
- Eldepryl is typically taken once or twice daily, with the starting dose often at 5 mg per day.
- It is usually taken in the morning to avoid interfering with sleep, as it can have mild stimulating effects.
- The dosage may be adjusted based on the patient’s response and tolerance.
- It can be taken with or without food, but should be taken at the same time every day for optimal effectiveness.
- For Parkinson’s disease, it is often used in combination with levodopa to enhance therapeutic outcomes.
Safety Concerns
- Side effects can include dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, and insomnia.
- There is a risk of hypertensive crisis if consumed with foods containing tyramine, such as aged cheeses, cured meats, and certain alcoholic beverages, due to a food-drug interaction.
- Serotonin syndrome may occur, especially if combined with other drugs that increase serotonin levels (e.g., certain antidepressants).
- Orthostatic hypotension (a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing) can occur, leading to dizziness or fainting.
- Caution should be taken in patients with a history of heart problems, liver disease, or severe hypertension.
Avoid Eldepryl (Selegiline) If
- You are allergic to selegiline or any other components of the medication.
- You have hypertension or a history of high blood pressure, especially if uncontrolled.
- You have a history of heart problems, particularly arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).
- You are taking other MAO inhibitors or medications that affect serotonin levels, as this can lead to serious side effects like serotonin syndrome.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding unless directed by a healthcare provider.
- You have a history of pheochromocytoma (a type of adrenal gland tumor) or liver disease.
- You consume foods high in tyramine, such as aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented products, or certain alcoholic beverages, as this can trigger a dangerous hypertensive crisis.
