Eldepryl (selegiline hydrochloride) is a selective monoamine oxidase-B inhibitor prescribed to manage symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, particularly in patients experiencing motor fluctuations. It is commonly used as an adjunct therapy to levodopa/carbidopa, helping to enhance and prolong the therapeutic effects while potentially allowing for dosage adjustments of other medications. By inhibiting the breakdown of dopamine in the brain, Eldepryl supports improved motor control, reduces “off” periods, and may contribute to a better quality of life for individuals navigating Parkinson’s progression.

Features

• Contains selegiline hydrochloride as the active ingredient
• Available in 5 mg oral tablet formulation
• Selective and irreversible MAO-B inhibitor
• Often used in combination with levodopa therapies
• Requires prescription and medical supervision

Benefits

• Extends the duration of levodopa effectiveness, reducing “wearing-off” episodes
• May allow for lower doses of levodopa, minimizing side effects like dyskinesias
• Helps improve overall motor function, including tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia
• Supports better daily symptom management and functional independence
• Potentially delays disease progression in early Parkinson’s cases
• Contributes to enhanced quality of life through more stable symptom control

Common use

Eldepryl is primarily indicated for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, both as monotherapy in early stages and as adjunctive therapy with levodopa/carbidopa in more advanced cases. It is particularly beneficial for patients experiencing motor fluctuations—periods where medication effects wear off before the next dose is due. Clinicians may also consider Eldepryl when seeking to optimize dopaminergic therapy while managing side effect profiles.

Dosage and direction

The typical starting dosage for Eldepryl is 5 mg taken orally twice daily, with breakfast and lunch. Maximum recommended dosage is 10 mg per day. Administration with meals may help minimize potential gastrointestinal upset. Patients should avoid taking Eldepryl in the evening or close to bedtime, as it may cause insomnia due to its metabolic properties. Dosage adjustments should only be made under medical supervision, particularly when used concomitantly with levodopa.

Precautions

Patients should be monitored for development of hypertension, especially during initial treatment phases. Those with hepatic impairment may require dosage adjustments. Elderly patients may experience increased sensitivity to side effects. Caution is advised when driving or operating machinery until response to therapy is established. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to assess therapeutic response and monitor for potential adverse effects.

Contraindications

Eldepryl is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to selegiline or any component of the formulation. Concurrent use with meperidine is absolutely contraindicated due to risk of serotonin syndrome. It should not be used with other MAO inhibitors, sympathomimetics, or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOI therapy. Patients with pheochromocytoma or those taking dextromethorphan should avoid Eldepryl.

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include nausea, dizziness, insomnia, abdominal pain, dry mouth, and orthostatic hypotension. Less frequently, patients may experience confusion, hallucinations, arrhythmias, or skin reactions. Some individuals report vivid dreams or mood changes. Most side effects are dose-dependent and may diminish with continued therapy or dosage adjustment.

Drug interaction

Significant interactions occur with other MAO inhibitors, SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, and sympathomimetic agents. Concomitant use with tyramine-rich foods may precipitate hypertensive crisis, though the risk is lower with selective MAO-B inhibitors compared to non-selective MAOIs. Careful monitoring is required when adding or discontinuing any serotonergic agents.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is接近 the time for the next scheduled dose. Patients should never double the dose to make up for a missed administration. If multiple doses are missed, medical advice should be sought regarding resumption of therapy.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include agitation, hypertension, tachycardia, hyperpyrexia, and confusion. Severe overdose may lead to serotonin syndrome or hypertensive emergency. Management involves symptomatic and supportive care, with close monitoring of vital signs. There is no specific antidote for selegiline overdose.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20-25°C/68-77°F) in the original container, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused medication according to local regulations.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Individual response to medication may vary, and not all potential side effects or interactions are listed here.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Eldepryl’s efficacy in reducing “off” time by approximately 1-2 hours daily when used as adjunct therapy. Many patients report improved motor function and reduced medication fluctuations. Some users note initial side effects that often diminish with continued use. Healthcare providers generally consider Eldepryl a valuable option in Parkinson’s management, particularly for patients experiencing wearing-off phenomena.