What is Selegiline?
Selegiline, also known as l-deprenyl, is a medication taken orally or via transdermal patch to treat patients suffering from diseases like Parkinson’s disease, major depression, and Alzheimer’s. It is also used as an adjunct treatment for Parkinson’s alongside other medications.
Selegiline is a selective monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) inhibitor, meaning it indirectly increases levels of dopamine. Dopamine is an important neurotransmitter that allows the brain to control movement, sen cation and emotion. When dopamine levels are too low, patients suffer from physical and cognitive decline, particularly in diseases such as Parkinson’s.
How Does Selegiline Work?
Selegiline works by inhibiting MAO-B, preventing the breakdown of dopamine and thus increasing dopamine levels in the brain. This allows patients to regain control of their movement, sensations and emotion. Selegiline is also believed to slow the progression of Parkinson’s due to its ability to increase antioxidant substances in the brain.
Selegiline is also used to treat depression. Studies have found that Selegiline can act like an antidepressant and work by reducing stress-induced hormones and restoring gene expression patterns to those of healthy individuals, improving cognitive function and reducing depressive symptoms.
How to Take Selegiline
Selegiline is available in oral tablets and transdermal patches. Oral tablets are taken once or twice a day and doses are usually started low and increased gradually. Patients should discuss with their doctor the best dosage schedule for their specific needs. The transdermal patch is usually applied 1-2 times a week and should be replaced with a new patch after this time.
Patients should always consult with their doctor before starting or stopping Selegiline as it could result in withdrawal symptoms, including insomnia, particularly when discontinued suddenly.
What Are the Side Effects of Selegiline?
Selegiline can cause a range of side effects, including dizziness, confusion, insomnia, constipation and dry mouth. It can also increase the risk of hallucinations and delusions, particularly in elderly patients. Selegiline may interact with a range of other medications, so patients should always speak to their doctor before starting any new medication and tell them what other medications they are taking.
Patients should also be aware that Selegiline can interact with certain foods and drinks, particularly those containing high concentrations of tyramine. These include pickled foods, aged cheeses, cured or smoked meats and alcoholic beverages. Patients taking Selegiline should avoid these foods and drinks to reduce the risk of side effects.
How to Buy Selegiline Without a Prescription
Selegiline is available without a prescription in some countries. Patients should always discuss with their doctor first, as Selegiline is a powerful medication and could be harmful if taken incorrectly. Patients may also find it difficult to obtain Selegiline legally without a prescription due to its potential for abuse.
Conclusion
Selegiline is a medication used to treat diseases like Parkinson’s disease, major depression, and Alzheimer’s. It works by inhibiting an enzyme responsible for the breakdown of dopamine and increasing dopamine levels in the brain, allowing for the restoration of movement, sensation, and emotion. Selegiline can be taken orally or via transdermal patch and should always be discussed with a doctor to ensure the best dosage and schedule. Side effects of Selegiline can include dizziness, confusion, hallucinations and delusions. Selegiline is also available without a prescription in some countries, however patients should always consult with their doctor to ensure it is used safely.