Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Rasagiline

Rasagiline: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Rasagiline?

Rasagiline is used alone or along with other medications to treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. It can help reduce or minimise symptoms such as shakiness, stiffness and difficulties patients may experience in movement. It belongs to a class of drugs called MAO inhibitors. These work together to increase the levels of certain substances in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, and consequently, the symptoms.

What are the uses of Rasagiline?

This medication is to be consumed through the mouth. Do so under strict medical supervision, as suggested by the doctor. Dosage for this drug is usually prescribed, keeping in mind the patient’s current medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications that he/she may be taking. It is advisable not to increase the dose on your own, as it does not improve the condition but may increase the side effects.

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    What are the side effects of Rasagiline?

    The first dose of Rasagiline may cause dizziness and light-headedness. Patients are advised to get up from a lying or sitting position slowly. Joint pain, heartburn, nausea, weight loss and stomach pain are some of the other side effects that are caused due to this medication. Depression and hallucination are severe side effects and must be reported to the doctor immediately.

    What is Rasagiline

    Uses of Rasagiline

    Side effects of Rasagiline

    References

    1. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-144380/rasagiline-oral/details
    2. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a606017.html
    3. https://www.rxlist.com/azilect-drug.htm

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Rasagiline

    Parkinson’s has well-defined symptoms such as a sluggish posture, muscle wastage, tremors and slowing of movement. It is a progressive disease with no cure and can only be managed. Hence, it is important to manage the symptoms of the disease, so that the patient does not experience acute discomfort and can follow an almost normal life. The drug is used to manage and reduce these symptoms.

    There have been different studies done on this, with varying results. One study says that the drug takes about a week to take effect, while another takes about two weeks. But overall, patients see a marked improvement in their symptoms over eight weeks. To ensure the best results, take the drug at the same time every day.

    Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor. The doctor usually stops the dosage of the drug gradually. Suddenly stopping the drug may lead to severe withdrawal symptoms such as fever, unsteadiness, wobbliness, changes in coordination, and loss of consciousness.

    Rasagiline is a slow-release drug. So, even after you stop taking it, it may stay in your system for a minimum of 14 days. Patients should ideally not take more than 0.5 mg of the drug at a time. Also, many doctors recommend that you wait it out for at least 14 days before you start taking any medicines for common cold as drugs for cold and flu tend to react with Rasagiline.

    There may be substantial increase in blood pressure if you eat a large amount of tyramine while also consuming Rasagiline. Tyramine is present abundantly in food items such as aged cheeses. Consult your doctor about what foodstuff to be consumed while on this drug. Tyramine-rich foods should be avoided till two weeks after the drug is stopped.

    No, the drug does not cause insomnia. On the other hand, it is known to cause drowsiness, and dizziness. Some patients who suffer from severe side effects are known to fall asleep while walking and even standing after consuming this drug. If this is the case, consult your doctor immediately.

    Combining Rasagiline with antidepressant medication and therapy may reduce the worsening of non-motor symptoms. Depression may also be a fallout of Parkinson’s disease. This can be managed with the help of antidepressant medication.

    It is generally safe for pregnant women to take the drug during pregnancy, but this too should be carefully considered by the doctor. If the benefits far outweigh the negatives, the drug may be prescribed for use among pregnant women. It is usually not recommended in pregnant women if they are suffering from high blood pressure.

    There are no scientific studies which indicate that the drug is unsafe to use during breastfeeding. However, there is a possibility that it may interfere with the production of serum prolactin, the hormone that is responsible for milk production in new mothers. Talk to your doctor in case you are breastfeeding your young baby.

    Using Rasagiline with ethanol may lead to impairment in judgement and thinking. It may also lead to other side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion. It is wise to not consume the drug and then drink and drive, as this may lead to accidents and possible injuries.

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