Eldepryl (Selegiline)

Description

This medication is used to treat movement disorders caused as a result of Parkinson’s disease. It is important to note that this medication does not cure Parkinson’s, but only alleviates certain symptoms of the condition. The medication is used along with other types of medications such as Levodopa and Carbidopa.

How It works

Eldepryl is an MOI inhibitor. Parkinson’s disease is caused due to low levels of dopamine in the brain. This medication destroys the enzyme that destructs dopamine in an individual. This way, the drug is able to maintain a neutral level of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain.

Uses

First of all, it must be understood that this medication does not have the ability to cure Parkinson’s. However, it can alleviate certain symptoms of the medication such as tremors, muscle stiffness, loss of movement, etc. This medication can improve an affected individual’s ability to walk, dress ad exercise to a great extent. This enables the individual to take part in his/her daily activities without requiring the assistance of another person.

Dosage

This medication is taken twice a day with food, specifically during breakfast and lunch. Unless your physician tells you otherwise, do not take this medication in the night since it can lead to sleeplessness. The dosage will be determined by the severity of your condition as well as your response to the treatment. Your doctor might prescribe you a low dosage and then increase it gradually in order to reduce the risk of side effects. Thus, make sure to stick to his/her prescription at all times.

This medication needs to be taken regularly in order to experience its best benefits. Thus, you must not skip or forget your dose during the treatment period. It will take some time for this medication to work. So, do not stop taking this medication abruptly since it will result in withdrawal symptoms.

Side Effects

The following are some side effects of this medication that you may or may not experience during the treatment period.

 Troubled breathing
 Light headed feeling
 Confusion
 Hallucinations
 Uncontrollable muscle movements
 Increased blood pressure
 Increases level of serotonin
 Unusual thoughts and behavior

If you experience any of the above, make sure to contact your healthcare provider for immediate medical help.

Precautions

If you follow the precautionary methods given below, you will be able to avoid experiencing the side effects of this medication.

 Do not drink alcohol during the treatment period since it can increase the risk of side effects.

 Take regular blood pressure tests since this medication can change your blood pressure level dramatically.

 This drug can temporarily impair your thinking and reactions. Thus, do not drive or operate machinery after taking your dose.

 Do not make any changes to your dosage timetable without consulting your physician first.

Self-Care

You must not increase your dose or take the medication more regularly than prescribed. This will not increase the effectiveness of the medication, but will only increase the risk of side effects.

If you become pregnant during the treatment period, talk to your physician in order to discuss the benefits of using this medication during the period of pregnancy.