Eldepryl - Talk Medical

Generic Name: selegiline

Brands: Eldepryl

What is the most important information I should know about Eldepryl?

· Do not take larger doses than are prescribed for you. Larger doses will not have any greater effect, but serious side effects could result.

· Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Eldepryl may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

What is Eldepryl?

· Eldepryl is used to treat Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is associated with low levels of a chemical called dopamine (doe PA meen) in your brain. The exact way that Eldepryl works is unknown. However, it is believed that Eldepryl prevents the breakdown of dopamine in your brain. Eldepryl is usually added to a treatment regimen after levodopa/carbidopa therapy begins to deteriorate.

· Eldepryl is used to treat the stiffness, tremors, spasms, and poor muscle control of Parkinson's disease. It is also used to treat the same muscular conditions when they are caused by drugs such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine (Prolixin), perphenazine (Trilafon), and others.

· Eldepryl may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Eldepryl?

· Eldepryl should not be taken if you are taking meperidine (Demerol).

· Before taking Eldepryl, tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions. You may require special monitoring or a special dosage because of other conditions or other medicines that you are taking.

· Eldepryl is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Eldepryl will harm an unborn baby. Do not take Eldepryl without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

· It is also not known whether Eldepryl will harm a nursing infant. Do not take Eldepryl without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Eldepryl?

· Take Eldepryl exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Take each dose with a full glass of water.

· Eldepryl is usually taken twice a day, at breakfast and lunch. Follow your doctor's directions.

· Do not take larger doses than are prescribed for you. Larger doses will not have any greater effect, but serious side effects could result.

· Store Eldepryl at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

· Seek emergency medical attention.

· Symptoms of a Eldepryl overdose include excitement, irritability, nervousness, insomnia, dizziness, severe headache, hallucinations, weakness, sweating, and seizures.

What should I avoid while taking Eldepryl?

· Do not take doses higher than those prescribed for you. Higher doses will not have any greater effect, but serious side effects could result.

What are the possible side effects of Eldepryl?

· If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Eldepryl and seek emergency medical attention: ·an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); ·a severe headache; ·restlessness, agitation, or irritability; ·sweating; ·convulsions; or ·uncontrollable or irregular movements.

· Other, less serious side effects may also occur. Continue to take Eldepryl and talk to your doctor if you experience ·dizziness or drowsiness; ·nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea; ·insomnia or vivid dreams; ·mild confusion, agitation, or anxiety; ·a mild headache; or ·dry mouth.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Eldepryl?

· Before taking Eldepryl, tell your doctor if you are taking: ·fluoxetine (Prozac), or ·meperidine (Demerol).

· You may not be able to take Eldepryl, or you may require a dose adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking either of the medicines listed above.

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Eldepryl. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has more information about Eldepryl written for health professionals that you may read.

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