Selegiline
Uses of Selegiline
Selegiline is commonly used to treat Parkinson's Disease
How Selegiline Works
Selegiline is a monoamine oxidase-B inhibitor which blocks the metabolism of dopamine in nigrostriatal pathways and increasing the dopaminergic activity. This is said to be the primary mechanism that helps to relieve symptoms in Parkinson’s disease.
Side Effects of Selegiline
Postural hypotension, Chest pain, Headache, Tremor, Vertigo, Dizziness, Mental disturbances, Gut disturbances, Difficulty in urination, Skin reactions, Joint/Muscle pain, Insomnia, Abnormal dreams, Liver enzyme dysfunction
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
Selegiline is safe to be used in patients with kidney impairment.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Alcohol may accentuate the sedative effect caused by Selegiline. Thus, it is not advisable to use alcohol and Selegiline concomitantly.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Animal studies have shown reproductive toxicities but there are limited data on the use of Selegiline during pregnancy as Parkinson's Disease usually occur after childbearing age. Thus, it is advisable to avoid Selegiline during pregnancy.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Selegiline may cause side effects such as dizziness, headache, nausea or tiredness, all of which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Use With Care
Selegiline is safe to be used in patients with liver impairment.
Lactation Not Advisable
There are limited data on the use of Selegiline during breastfeeding. Thus, it is advisable to avoid Selegiline during breastfeeding.
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
