Selegiline

Dosage Forms Available

• Selegiline can be taken orally (tablet or capsule), and topically (transdermal patches).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for use by adults.

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to Selegiline or any of its components.

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with pheochromocytoma, a rare tumour of the adrenal gland.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Selegiline can interact with antidepressants (eg., fluoxetine, sertraline), sympathomimetics (eg., pseudoephedrine, epinephrine), and other MAO inhibitors (eg., phenelzine, tranylcypromine), blood pressure-lowering medicines eg., metoprolol, enalapril), opioid medications (eg.,meperidine, tramadol), and anaesthetics (eg., lidocaine, propofol).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Selegiline may present symptoms such as severe headache, sudden high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, agitation and confusion, hallucinations and psychosis. If these occur, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

• If you miss a dose of Selegiline, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Some people might experience dry mouth; drinking water regularly can help alleviate this discomfort.

• If sleep disturbances occur, consider taking Selegiline earlier in the day if instructed so by your doctor.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This medication may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness while using Selegiline, it is advisable to avoid driving or engaging in activities requiring alertness.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The use of Selegiline during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be approached with caution. It is advised to consult your doctor before using this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease or hypertension should use Selegiline with caution due to the potential for elevated blood pressure.

• Caution is advised when using this medication in patients with severe liver disease.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Individuals using Selegiline should avoid foods high in tyramine such as aged cheeses and cured meats. High levels of tyramine combined with Selegiline can lead to a hypertensive crisis.

• Regular monitoring of blood pressure is advisable to manage potential hypertensive risks associated with this medication.

• Maintaining a consistent schedule for taking medication can aid in achieving the best therapeutic outcome.

• Engaging in regular light to moderate physical activity can enhance overall well-being and help manage symptoms related to the condition being treated.