Rasagiline

Brand names: Azilect

Why is Rasagiline prescribed?

Azilect is indicated for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. It can be taken alone, or with levodopa/carbidopa later in the disease.

Most important fact about Rasagiline

When taking Azilect you should avoid foods and beverages high in tyramine such as aged cheeses, air-dried meats, pickled herring, yeast extract, aged red wines, tap or draft beers, sauerkraut, and soy sauce. These types of food may cause a dangerous increase in blood pressure. All patients are advised to monitor for melanoma (skin cancer) frequently and see a dermatologist on a regular basis.

How should you take Rasagiline?

Your doctor will instruct you on how to take Rasagiline.

• If you miss a dose...If a dose is missed, just continue on your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses of Azilect at once.

• Storage instructions...Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Rasagiline.

• Side effects may include:Accidental injury, constipation, dry mouth, headache, indigestion, joint pain, low blood pressure, nausea, rash, sleepiness, uncontrolled movements, vomiting, weight loss

Why should Rasagiline not be prescribed?

If you have moderate-to-severe liver disease or a tumor of the adrenal gland, you should not take Azilect.

Special warnings about Rasagiline

When taking Azilect, you should not have elective surgery requiring general anesthesia, and should not receive cocaine or other local anesthesia that contains ingredients that could raise blood pressure.

Always tell your doctor about all the prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medicines you are taking, especially antidepressants and ciprofloxacin, as well as your medical history. Also, tell your doctor if you are nursing, or are going to have surgery.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Rasagiline

If Azilect is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Azilect with the following:

AmphetatminesCold medicine with decongestantsCyclobenzaprineDextromethorphanMAOIsMeperidineMethadoneMirtazapinePropoxypheneSt. John's wortTramadolWeight loss medication with pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, phenylpropanolamine, or ephedrine

In order to prevent a dangerous increase in blood pressure, when taking Azilect you should also avoid foods and beverages high in tyramine content such as aged cheeses, air-dried meats, pickled herring, yeast extract, aged red wines, tap or draft beers, sauerkraut, and soy sauce.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Azilect during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Talk with your doctor before taking Rasagiline if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage for Rasagiline

ADULTS

Azilect should be administered as 1 milligram (mg) once a day if taken alone. For use with another drug such as levodopa/carbidopa, the initial dose is 0.5 mg once a day, and may increase to 1 mg once a day.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of overdose may include:Agitation, coma, convulsion, cool/clammy skin, dizziness, drowsiness, faintness, hallucinations, headache, hyperactivity, irritability, rapid and irregular pulse, severe headache