Selegiline
Information about Selegiline
Selegiline Uses
Selegiline is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
How Selegiline works
Selegiline works by increasing the amount of dopamine, a chemical messenger that is needed to control movement in the brain.
Common side effects of Selegiline
Joint pain, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), Vomiting, Dizziness, Constipation, Diarrhea, Confusion, Hallucination, Movement disorder, Headache, Vertigo, Hypotension (low blood pressure), Slow heart rate, Muscle cramp, Fatigue, Breathlessness, Rash, Pharyngitis, Sinus inflammation, Mouth ulcer, Increased liver enzymes
Expert advice for Selegiline
- You have been prescribed Selegiline to treat your symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
- It should preferably be taken with breakfast or lunch as taking it late in the day may cause trouble sleeping.
- It can an make you dizzy or lightheaded, especially when you suddenly stand up from sitting or laying down. Thus get out of bed slowly, resting your feet on the floor for a few minutes before standing up.
- Avoid eating foods high in tyramine (eg. aged cheeses, air-dried meats, soy sauce, tap/draft beers and red wines) while taking Selegiline, since it can cause an unsafe rise in your blood pressure.
- Don't stop taking it suddenly without talking to your doctor, since it can be dangerous.
- Parkinson's disease can increase your risk for skin cancer. Talk to your doctor if you notice any unusual growth or bumps on your skin.
- Let your doctor know if you are also taking medicines for depression or mood disorders.