Uses of Rasagiline

Rasagiline is used to treat Parkinson's disease in adults.

Therapeutic Category

Rasagiline: Anti- Parkinsonian agents (Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs))

How Rasagiline works

Rasagiline works by increasing and maintaining the levels of certain natural substances such as dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine in your brain, resulting in reduction of parkinson’s symptoms.

Common side effects of Rasagiline

• involuntary movements
• headache
• allergy, fever, flu
• feeling generally unwell
• neck pain
• chest pain
• low blood pressure when rising to stand (dizziness, lightheadedness)
• decreased appetite, constipation, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, flatulence, stomach pain
• joint and muscle pain
• joint inflammation
• numbness and weakness of hand muscles
• decreased weight
• abnormal dreams
• difficulty in muscular coordination
• dizziness
• prolonged muscle contractions
• runny nose
• irritation of the skin, rash
• bloodshot eyes
• urinary urgency

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• impulsive control disorders (unusual behaviors like urges or cravings to do any harmful or detrimental activities to yourself or others, compulsions, obsessive thoughts, addictive gambling, too much shopping or spending, impulsive behavior and an unusually high sex drive or an increase in sexual thoughts)
• hallucinations (seeing or hearing things which are not there)
• symptoms of serotonin syndrome  (hallucinations, fever, restlessness, shaking, sweating)
• any suspicious skin changes (lumps or moles)
• falling asleep while carrying out daily activities

Health Tips for Rasagiline

• Avoid foods rich in tyramine, such as aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented foods, and certain alcoholic beverages as these foods can interact with the medication and can lead to a severe increase in blood pressure
• Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet. Staying hydrated and consuming foods rich in vitamins and minerals can support your overall health
• Engage in regular physical activity as recommended by the doctor. Exercise can help improve muscle strength, balance, and overall well-being
• Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Rasagiline as it can interact with the medication and affect its efficacy
• Practice stress-relief techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or relaxation exercises
• Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel dizziness or drowsiness after taking Rasagiline
• Use sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent sunburn as Rasagiline may increase sensitivity to sunlight
• Consider joining support group for Parkinson’s disease patients. Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide emotional support and valuable insights
• Engage in activities that promote mental well-being such as mindfulness practices, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones