RASAGILINE

It is a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor. It reduces the breakdown of dopamine resulting in increased levels of dopamine in the brain which alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Indications

Parkinson's disease.

Dosage

Oral 1 mg once daily. When combined with levodopa : 0.5mg once daily. The dose may be increased to 1mg once daily if the response is not adequate.

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity.

Special Precautions

Pregnancy, Lactation. Discontinue Rasagiline at least 14 days before initiating treatment with antidepressants that increse serotonin levels or with other MAOIs.

Side Effects

Headache, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, rash, upset stomach, constipation, joint pain, difficultly in moving, falls, postural hypotension, depression, hallucinations. A hypertensive crisis may occur if food high in tyramine are consumed.

Drug Interactions

Ciprofloxacin, Antidepressant that increase serotonin levels; Other MAOIs; Meperdine, Propoxyphene, Tramadol, Methadone, Mirtazapine, Cyclobenzaprine, Dextromethorphan, St. Jhon's Wort, Sympathomimetic, amine drugs, Products containing vasoconstrictors.