Azilect (Rasagiline) 0.5mg

Anti-Parkinson Agent, MAO Type B Inhibitor

CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship

Rasagiline, Azilect is a potent, irreversible and selective inhibitor of monoamine oxidase (MAO) type B in the central nervous system, which plays a major role in the catabolism of dopamine and other neurotransmitters. Inhibition of dopamine depletion in the striatal region of the brain reduces the symptomatic motor deficits of Parkinson’s disease.

Parkinson Disease

Before starting Rasagiline, Azilect make sure your physician is aware of any allergies, medications you currently take, if you have liver disease, or a psychotic disorder. Rasagiline use has been associated with rare but serious adverse events such as CNS effects, dyskinesia, impulse control disorder, hypertension, melanoma, orthostatic hypotension, serotonin syndrome, and somnolence.  Rasaligine has many drug interactions, so discuss any supplements, natural health products, or nonprescription medications with your prescriber/pharmacist prior to using.

Oral: 0.5-1mg once daily. When added to existing levodopa therapy, a dose reduction of levodopa may be required to avoid exacerbation of dyskinesias.

How to Take: Follow instructions provided by physician/pharmacy label, take consistently at same time each day unless otherwise directed, store at room temperature.

You Need to Avoid: Alcohol may increase toxic effects of MAO inhibitor and should be avoided.  Concurrent ingestion of foods rich in tyramine, dopamine, tyrosine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, or caffeine may cause sudden and severe high blood pressure (hypertensive crisis or serotonin syndrome).

Management: Avoid foods containing high amounts (>150 mg) of tyramine (aged or matured cheese, air-dried or cured meats including sausages and salamis; fava or broad bean pods, tap/draft beers, Marmite concentrate, sauerkraut, soy sauce, and other soybean condiments). Food’s freshness is also an important concern; improperly stored or spoiled food can create an environment in which tyramine concentrations may increase. Avoid these foods during and for 2 weeks after discontinuation of medication.
Antiparkinsonian discontinuation syndrome: Abrupt discontinuation or interruption of antiparkinsonian therapy has been associated with a discontinuation syndrome, which may resemble neuroleptic malignant syndrome; symptoms may include elevated temperature, muscular rigidity, altered consciousness, and autonomic instability.

Headache, dyspepsia, depression, increased risk of falls, arthralgia

Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only common ones

1. What is Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome?
   NMS is a rare but serious reaction from significant blockade of dopamine which can occur from antipsychotic medications or from being on high dosages of levodopa (dopamine analogue) and stopping suddenly.  Presents initially as muscle cramps, tremors, fever, unstable blood pressure, and sudden changes in mental status.  As it progresses over 8-40 hours it can lead to complications of rhabdomyolysis, hyperkalemia, kidney failure, or seizures.  Seek medical attention immediately if this reaction is suspected.
2. What is serotonin syndrome?
   Serotonin syndrome is a rare, but potentially life-threatening condition of serotonin toxicity from too much of it in your system generally from the use of certain medications and supplements.  Usually multiple agents are at play or very high doses are involved.  The signs and symptoms include agitation, hallucinations, delirium, coma, tachycardia (rapid heart rate), diaphoresis (excessive sweating), tremor, muscle rigidity, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or seizures.  If serotonin syndrome is suspected, discontinue any serotonergic medications, and seek immediate medical attention.