Selegiline

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Selegiline (pronunciation: /sɛlɪˈdʒiːliːn/), also known as L-deprenyl and sold under the brand names Eldepryl and Emsam among others, is a medication used to treat Parkinson's disease and major depressive disorder. It is usually used in combination with other medications to manage these conditions more effectively.

Etymology

The term "Selegiline" is derived from the chemical name (R)-(-)-N,alpha-dimethyl-N-2-propynylphenethylamine. The drug was first synthesized in the 1960s by Hungarian chemist Joseph Knoll.

Pharmacology

Selegiline belongs to a class of drugs known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). It works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that help to maintain mental balance. Specifically, it inhibits the activity of monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B), an enzyme that breaks down dopamine in the brain. By blocking the action of this enzyme, Selegiline helps to increase the amount of dopamine available in the brain, which can help to improve symptoms of Parkinson's disease and depression.

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Side Effects

Like all medications, Selegiline can cause side effects. Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, insomnia, and dry mouth. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as hallucinations, severe nausea, and high blood pressure. If you experience any of these side effects, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Precautions

Before taking Selegiline, you should inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, or kidney disease. You should also inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

See Also

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