Eldepryl

Basic Eldepryl information

• INN (international nonproprietary name): Selegiline
• Brand names available in the United Kingdom: Eldepryl
• ATC code: N04BD01
• Forms and dosages: Tablets 5 mg, 10 mg
• Manufacturers in the United Kingdom: Sovereign Medical
• Registration status in the United Kingdom: Prescription-only medicine (POM)
• OTC / Rx classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM)

Everyday use and best practices

Eldepryl is taken by mouth at regular times each day, as directed by your prescriber.

Morning vs evening dosing

Eldepryl is usually taken in the morning, or as a morning and midday dose if divided. Late-day doses can cause sleeplessness, so avoid taking it in the evening unless advised. A consistent routine aids adherence.

Taking with or without meals

Eldepryl can be taken with or without food. If nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort arises, taking the dose with a meal may provide relief.

Safety priorities

Discuss your medicines and health history with a healthcare professional before using Eldepryl.

Who should avoid it (MHRA warnings)

Eldepryl should not be used in the following cases:

• Known hypersensitivity reactions to selegiline or any of its components
• Persons currently on other monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), as this could increase the risk of severe adverse reactions
• Individuals taking opioid analgesics like pethidine or serotonergic agents (such as SSRIs), which heightens the risk of serotonin syndrome
• People with phaeochromocytoma due to the risk of hypertensive crisis

Certain groups are strongly advised to consult healthcare professionals before initiating Eldepryl treatment. This includes individuals with:

• A history of peptic ulcer disease
• Severe cardiovascular issues such as hypertension or arrhythmias
• Mental health disorders including psychosis and mania

Activities to limit (driving, work safety)

Eldepryl can cause side effects such as dizziness, which can significantly affect the ability to drive or operate machinery safely. In the UK you must remain fit to drive; anyone experiencing adverse effects should not drive until they are certain that their ability is unimpaired.

Alongside driving, Eldepryl could affect work-related tasks that require concentration or coordination. If feelings of dizziness or fatigue arise, it's wise to limit participation in such activities to avoid accidents or mishaps in the workplace.

Dosage and adjustments

General regimen (NHS guidance)

For Parkinson's disease, the dose of Eldepryl (selegiline) is tailored to the individual. The usual dose is:

• 5 mg daily at the start, increased to a maximum of 10 mg daily.
• The daily dose can be given as a single dose in the morning or split into two doses (for example 5 mg in the morning and 5 mg at midday).

The dose is titrated according to tolerance and clinical response.

Special cases (elderly, comorbidities)

Older adults require careful consideration because of age-related changes in metabolism. Treatment is usually started at the lower end of the scale:

• 5 mg is preferred, with slow titration based on tolerance.

This cautious approach helps to avoid potential side effects, as elderly patients may be more sensitive to medications.

Additionally, for those with liver or kidney impairments, dosage adjustments are vital. The clearance of Selegiline can be affected by these conditions, necessitating lower doses and vigilant monitoring to ensure safety and efficacy.

Routine follow-ups help to manage any adverse responses and allow the treatment regimen to be adjusted.