Alzheimer's And Parkinson'sEldepryl (Generic)
Generic drugs, marketed without brand names, contain the exact same active ingredients used in their brand-name counterparts, but cost significantly less. The drugs are required to meet US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards for safety, purity and effectiveness.
Eldepryl
Eldepryl, in its generic form, is a medication that can treat Parkinson disease. This treatment is given in conjunction with other medications that contain levodopa and carbidopa.
Eldepryl, known by its generic name selegiline, is a medication primarily used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. It belongs to a class of drugs called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), specifically MAO-B inhibitors. Eldepryl is widely recognized for its ability to enhance the effectiveness of levodopa, a cornerstone medication in Parkinson’s disease management. Beyond Parkinson’s, Eldepryl has also been explored for its potential benefits in other conditions, such as depression and cognitive decline. Below is an extensive exploration of Eldepryl (selegiline), covering its mechanism of action, uses, dosage, side effects, precautions, and more.
What is Eldepryl (Selegiline)?
Eldepryl is the brand name for selegiline hydrochloride, a selective and irreversible inhibitor of monoamine oxidase type B (MAO-B). MAO-B is an enzyme responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters such as dopamine in the brain. By inhibiting MAO-B, Eldepryl helps to increase dopamine levels, which is particularly beneficial in Parkinson’s disease, a condition characterized by dopamine deficiency.
Eldepryl is available in oral tablet form and as an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) under the brand name Zelapar, which is absorbed more rapidly and may have fewer side effects.
Mechanism of Action
Eldepryl works by selectively inhibiting the MAO-B enzyme, which is primarily responsible for metabolizing dopamine in the brain. This inhibition leads to:
Increased levels of dopamine in the brain, improving motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease.
Enhanced effectiveness of levodopa, a precursor to dopamine, by preventing its breakdown.
At higher doses, Eldepryl may also inhibit MAO-A, an enzyme that metabolizes other neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine. This dual inhibition can have antidepressant effects but also increases the risk of side effects, such as hypertensive crises.
Uses of Eldepryl
Parkinson’s Disease:
Eldepryl is primarily used as an adjunct therapy to levodopa/carbidopa in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. It helps to reduce motor fluctuations (e.g., "wearing-off" episodes) and improve symptom control.
Depression:
At higher doses, Eldepryl has been used as an antidepressant, particularly in treatment-resistant depression. However, this use is less common due to the availability of newer antidepressants with fewer side effects.
Cognitive Decline:
Some studies have explored the use of Eldepryl in slowing cognitive decline in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, though evidence for this use is limited.
Other Conditions:
Eldepryl has been investigated for its potential benefits in conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, though these uses are not well-established.
Dosage and Administration
For Parkinson’s Disease:
The typical dose is 5 mg to 10 mg per day, taken as a single dose or divided into two doses (e.g., 5 mg in the morning and 5 mg at noon).
Taking Eldepryl in the evening may cause insomnia due to its stimulating effects.
Orally Disintegrating Tablets (Zelapar):
The recommended dose is 1.25 mg to 2.5 mg per day, placed under the tongue to dissolve.
For Depression:
Higher doses (e.g., 20 mg to 40 mg per day) may be used, but this requires strict dietary restrictions to avoid hypertensive crises.
Side Effects of Eldepryl
Eldepryl is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause side effects, particularly at higher doses. Common side effects include:
Common Side Effects:
Nausea.
Dry mouth.
Dizziness.
Insomnia.
Headache.
Abdominal pain.
Less Common but Serious Side Effects:
Hypertensive crisis (especially with higher doses or dietary tyramine intake).
Hallucinations or confusion.
Irregular heartbeat.
Severe dizziness or fainting.
Mood changes or suicidal thoughts.
Precautions and Warnings
Dietary Restrictions:
At higher doses (above 10 mg per day), Eldepryl can inhibit MAO-A, increasing the risk of a hypertensive crisis if tyramine-rich foods (e.g., aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented foods) are consumed. Patients should follow a low-tyramine diet if prescribed higher doses.
Drug Interactions:
Eldepryl can interact with other medications, including:
Other antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs).
Opioids (e.g., meperidine).
Stimulants (e.g., amphetamines).
Over-the-counter cold and cough medications containing dextromethorphan.
Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
Eldepryl should be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if the benefits outweigh the risks. Its safety in these populations has not been well-studied.
Elderly Patients:
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of Eldepryl, particularly dizziness and confusion.
Withdrawal:
Stopping Eldepryl abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, such as agitation, hallucinations, or worsening Parkinson’s symptoms. The dose should be tapered gradually under medical supervision.
Storage and Handling
Store Eldepryl at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Do not use expired medication.
Cost and Availability
Eldepryl is available as a generic (selegiline), which is more affordable than the brand-name version. It is widely available in most pharmacies and is often covered by insurance plans.
Conclusion
Eldepryl (selegiline) is a valuable medication in the management of Parkinson’s disease, particularly as an adjunct to levodopa therapy. Its ability to increase dopamine levels and reduce motor fluctuations makes it a key component of treatment for many patients. While it is generally well-tolerated, it requires careful monitoring, especially at higher doses or when used in combination with other medications. Patients should work closely with their healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective use of Eldepryl. Its potential applications in depression and cognitive decline continue to be explored, though further research is needed to establish its role in these areas. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting or stopping Eldepryl to ensure optimal outcomes.
Selegiline tablet
What kind of medication is this?
SELEGILINE functions as an inhibitor of monoamine oxidase (MAOI). In the treatment of Parkinson's disease, it is administered concurrently with levodopa-carbidopa. When there is a decreased response to levodopa, which is the typical time when it is introduced to therapy,
Before I start using this medication, what should I discuss with my primary care physician?
People have a right to know if you suffer from any of the following conditions:
You consume drinks containing alcohol on a regular basis.
renal disease
illness of the liver
a response that is unexpected or allergic to selegiline, as well as other drugs, foods, colors, or preservatives
pregnant or attempting to get pregnant
breast-feeding
What is the correct way to take this medication?
This medication should be taken orally with a full glass of water. Always remember to space out your dosages evenly. Do not take your medication more frequently than recommended by the label. Do not stop taking the medication unless specifically directed to do so by your physician or another qualified medical expert.
Have a discussion with your child's physician about the possibility of giving them this medication. It's possible that further attention is required.
In the event that you believe you may have taken an excessive amount of this medication, you should immediately contact a poison control center or an emergency facility.
PLEASE TAKE NOTE That no one else should use this medication. It is important that others not use this medication.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
If you forget to take a dosage, you should take it as soon as you remember it. Take only that dose if it is getting close to the time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take duplicate or additional dosages.
What other substances could react with this medication?
It is not safe to use this drug with any of the medicines listed below:
altretamine
atomoxetine
caffeine
carbamazepine\scocaine
dextromethorphan\sdiphenoxylate\sephedrine
Isoniazid is an antifungal agent that may be found in herbal remedies such as ginseng, green tea, guarana, SAM-e, and St. John's Wort.
Anesthetics local made by linezolid
Medications for mental sadness as well as medications for headaches and migraines
meperidine procarbazine pseudoephedrine stimulants such as amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, or methylphenidate tramadol tryptophan meperidine procarbazine pseudoephedrine meperidine procarbazine pseudoephedrine
There is a possibility that this treatment will interact negatively with the following medications:
pharmaceuticals for treating high blood pressure
prescription pain meds
It's probable that this list doesn't cover all of the possible interactions. Provide your primary care physician with a list of all the medications, herbs, over-the-counter pharmaceuticals, and dietary supplements that you are currently using. Additionally let them know whether you are a smoker, a drinker, or if you take any illicit substances. It's possible that certain things might react badly with your medication.
What side effects should I be on the lookout for when using this medication?
You should schedule frequent checkups with your primary care physician or another qualified medical expert. The full benefits of this medication could not be seen for up to four weeks after starting treatment. It is not safe to quit taking your medication all of a sudden. It's possible that doing this will make your illness worse worse or give you withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your primary care physician or another qualified medical expert about the possibility of progressively decreasing the amount of medication you take. The effects of this medication might linger on for at least two weeks after you have stopped using it.
Both patients and their relatives should be on the lookout for a worsening of depression or suicidal thoughts in the patient. Be on the lookout for abrupt or extreme shifts in how you feel, including symptoms such as feeling worried, agitated, panicky, irritable, angry, aggressive, impulsive, extremely restless, unduly stimulated, and hyperactive, as well as an inability to sleep. In the event that this occurs, particularly at the beginning of the antidepressant therapy or after a change in dose, contact your primary care physician or another qualified medical practitioner.
If your physician or other health care provider decides to raise the dosage of this medication to more than 10 milligrams per day, you should discuss the potential for adverse reactions with tyramine-containing meals with them. There is a possibility that greater dosages of this medication, when combined with these meals, might result in severe headaches, an increase in blood pressure, or an irregular heart rhythm.
It is possible for you to get tired, lightheaded, or experience blurred vision. Do not operate a motor vehicle, operate heavy machinery, or engage in any activity that requires mental attention until you have determined how this medication affects you. Take it easy when getting up, especially if you are an older patient who needs medical attention. This lowers the likelihood of experiencing periods of lightheadedness or fainting. Drinking alcohol might make you more prone to feeling lightheaded or sleepy. When you are taking this medication, you should avoid drinking any alcoholic drinks.
It's possible your mouth will get dry. Some people find that sucking on sugar-free gum or hard candy, in addition to drinking plenty of water, is helpful. Make an appointment with your primary care physician if the symptom does not improve or if it is severe.
Do not attempt to treat your own coughs, colds, the flu, or allergies without first consulting your doctor or another qualified medical practitioner. You should also avoid using any weight loss medicine without first consulting a doctor. There is a possibility that the potential adverse effects of these items might be exacerbated by certain additives.
This medication may have an effect on the amount of sugar in the blood. If you have diabetes, you should talk to your primary care physician or another qualified medical practitioner before making any adjustments to your diabetes medication or diet.
If you are about to have any kind of surgery, treatment, or medical test done, you should let the person taking care of you know that you are currently taking this medication.
What possible negative reactions may I have to this medication?
You should report the following side effects to your physician or another qualified medical expert as soon as possible:
allergic responses such as rashes, itching, or hives on the skin; swelling of the cheeks, lips, or tongue; irritability, excitement, panic attacks, mania, or restlessness; breathing difficulties
chest pain
a decrease in the ability to pass urine, eyes that are more sensitive to light, and enlarged pupils
sensations of dizziness or lightheadedness, fever, clammy skin, excessive perspiration, and a sore throat are all signs of an illness.
hypertension; high blood pressure
a beat that is not regular
discomfort in the muscles of the neck, including spasms
seizures
thoughts of suicide or other shifts in mood are a concern
problem sleeping
discoloration of the eyes and/or skin
Adverse effects that, in most cases, do not need seeking medical attention (although you should let your doctor or another health care expert know if they persist or become bothersome):
decrease in sex desire or performance
bowel issues like constipation or diarrhea
increased hunger or weight gain increased sensitivity to sunlight increased trembling nausea or vomiting increased swelling of the ankles or legs increased muscular aches or pains increased sensitivity to sunlight increased
a state of weariness or weakness
It's conceivable that this list doesn't cover all of the potential negative consequences.
Where should I store my medication, if you please?
Be sure that youngsters can't get their hands on it.
Keep at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). After the expiration date, any medicine that has been used but not finished should be thrown away.
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try out a different kind and see if it was a better fit for my needs. Which it was!
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crossed my mind how much cheaper the generic versions were. When I started browsing the
items I couldn’t believe the price difference! This is my go to shop right now.
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always bought it in store. I spoke to one of their support reps and they were really nice
and helped to explain how it works and made me feel much more comfortable with my order!
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and it definitely won’t be my last! They had all the items I needed in one place and the
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