Selegiline

About selegiline

The cause of Parkinson's disease is still unknown but the symptoms of tremor, stiffness and slow movement are due to there being less of a chemical called dopamine in the brain. Selegiline increases the effect of dopamine in the brain and so relieves these symptoms. It may be used together with another drug called levodopa.

Before taking selegiline

Before taking selegiline make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from blood pressure problems, arrhythmias (irregular heart beat), angina (chest pain) or mental health problems.
• If you have a stomach or duodenal ulcer.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take selegiline

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• The dose of selegiline oral lyophilisate should be placed on the tongue and allowed to dissolve. Take it in the morning, at least 5 minutes before breakfast. Do not drink or rinse your mouth for at least five minutes after taking your dose of selegiline.
• The tablets or liquid can be taken as a single dose in the morning, or alternatively, a half-dose may be taken in a morning and the other half-dose at lunchtime. Your doctor will tell you how to take your dose.
• Try to take selegiline at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
• As your condition improves and your body movements become easier, be careful not to overdo physical activities. Physical activities must be increased gradually to allow your body to adjust to changing balance, circulation and co-ordination. This is especially important in the elderly.
• Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first. Your doctor will need to reduce your dose of selegiline gradually before stopping.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can selegiline cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store selegiline

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines