Azilect

Azilect (rasagiline) is a monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) inhibitor used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. It helps increase and prolong the effects of dopamine in the brain, improving movement and reducing symptoms such as tremor, stiffness, and slowness. It may be used alone in early-stage Parkinson’s or in combination with other medications like levodopa in more advanced stages.

Benefits

• Helps manage motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease
• Can be used as monotherapy in early stages
• Enhances the effects of levodopa in advanced Parkinson’s
• Once-daily oral dosing improves treatment adherence
• May reduce “off” time (periods when symptoms return between doses of other medication)

Dosage

• Monotherapy (early-stage Parkinson’s): 1 mg once daily
• Adjunct to levodopa (advanced Parkinson’s): 0.5 mg to 1 mg once daily
• Can be taken with or without food
• No dose adjustment required for mild liver or kidney impairment
• Not recommended in patients with moderate to severe liver dysfunction

Warnings and Precautions

• Risk of serotonin syndrome when used with certain antidepressants—use caution
• Avoid concurrent use with other MAO inhibitors, sympathomimetics, or certain opioids
• May increase blood pressure—monitor in patients with hypertension
• Use with caution in patients with a history of dyskinesia or hallucinations
• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless clearly necessary
• Tyramine-containing foods (e.g. aged cheese, cured meats) should be limited, although dietary restrictions are less stringent than with non-selective MAO inhibitors

Usage Instructions

• Take once daily, at the same time each day
• Can be taken with or without meals
• Do not double dose if a dose is missed—take the next dose at the usual time
• Do not stop taking without consulting a healthcare provider
• Continue regular medical follow-up to monitor disease progression and medication effects

Storage Information

• Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F)
• Protect from moisture and light
• Keep in original packaging until use
• Keep out of reach of children

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Joint pain
• Indigestion or nausea
• Depression or mood changes
• Flu-like symptoms
• More serious side effects may include hallucinations, hypertensive crisis (especially with drug or food interactions), or serotonin syndrome