Rasagiline Tablet: Uses , Side Effects and Dosage

Rasagiline tablets are commonly prescribed to manage symptoms of Parkinson's disease. It works by increasing the levels of certain natural substances in the brain that help improve movement and coordination.

Rasagiline is typically used either alone in early stages of the condition or along with other medications like levodopa in more advanced cases. Available in 0.5 mg and 1 mg doses, it is usually taken once daily. Regular use can help reduce tremors, stiffness, and improve overall mobility.

What Is Rasagiline?

Rasagiline is an irreversible monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) inhibitor used primarily to treat symptoms of early Parkinson's disease. It can be used alone or in combination with other medications like levodopa/carbidopa. By inhibiting MAO-B, rasagiline helps increase the levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in the brain, which are neurotransmitters involved in regulating movement and mood.

What Are the Uses of Rasagiline Tablets?

• Parkinson's Disease: It is prescribed to alleviate symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement associated with Parkinson's disease. It can also reduce "off" times, periods when Parkinson's symptoms worsen despite treatment.
• Mechanism of Action: Rasagiline's inhibition of MAO-B helps maintain higher levels of dopamine in the brain, which is crucial for motor function.

How to Use Rasagiline:

• Take rasagiline orally, once daily, with or without food, as directed by your doctor. It's important not to exceed the prescribed dosage or frequency.
• Avoid suddenly stopping the medication without consulting your doctor, as this can worsen certain conditions.
• Tyramine-rich foods (like aged cheeses) should be avoided while taking rasagiline to prevent a potentially dangerous increase in blood pressure. Consult your doctor or a dietician for specific dietary recommendations.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's near the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

How Does Rasagiline Work?

Rasagiline works by blocking an enzyme in the brain called monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B). This enzyme breaks down dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement. By stopping MAO-B, rasagiline increases dopamine levels, which helps improve movement and coordination in people with Parkinson's disease.

It does not cure the condition but helps reduce symptoms like shaking, stiffness, and slowness. Rasagiline does not affect hormones but acts directly on brain chemicals to support better nerve communication.

Rasagiline Dosage

• Typical Dosage: The usual dose is 1 mg taken once daily, with or without food, as directed by a doctor.
• Missed Dose: If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Skip it if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.
• Overdose: Taking too much rasagiline can increase the risk of side effects like severe headache, dizziness, or high blood pressure. Seek medical help immediately in case of an overdose.

Rasagiline Side Effects:

Common side effects may include depressed mood, sleep problems, involuntary muscle movements, loss of appetite, indigestion, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, joint pain, rash, cough, flu symptoms, dry mouth, and swelling of hands or feet.

Rasagiline Side Effects

• Common Side Effects: Headache, nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, joint pain, and drowsiness.
• Serious but Rare Side Effects: Hallucinations, high blood pressure, unusual body movements, mood changes, and serotonin syndrome (especially if taken with other serotonergic drugs).

Precautions:

• Inform your doctor about any allergies and medical history, especially of liver disease, glaucoma, breathing problems, heart disease, kidney disease, stomach/intestinal ulcers, mood disorders, or blood disorders.
• Rasagiline may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid alcohol consumption, which can exacerbate these effects.
• Use during pregnancy is only recommended if clearly needed, as its effects on the fetus are not well understood. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while taking rasagiline.
• Be cautious of drug interactions, especially with medications that increase serotonin levels or other MAO inhibitors.

Possible Interactions with Other Medications (Drug Interactions)

Rasagiline may interact with several medications. Taking it with antidepressants such as SSRIs, SNRIs, or tricyclic antidepressants can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. It should not be combined with other MAO inhibitors or certain opioid medications like meperidine and tramadol. Caution is also advised when used with sympathomimetic drugs or decongestants.

Herbal supplements like St. John's Wort or those with serotonergic effects should be avoided, as they may enhance side effects or cause dangerous interactions.

How Should Rasagiline Be Stored?

• Recommended Storage Temperature tablet: Store Rasagiline at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), away from moisture, light, and heat.
• What Happens If Rasagiline Is Not Stored Properly? Exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity can reduce the effectiveness of the medicine, and in some cases, it may degrade, potentially making it unsafe or less effective.

Rasagiline vs Selegiline:

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