Zelapar

Generic name: Selegiline hydrochloride

What is Zelapar?

Zelapar is used in the management of patients with Parkinson's disease who are not responding to treatment with levodopa/carbidopa alone.

What is the most important information I should know about Zelapar?

Zelapar should not be taken with any type of tricyclic antidepressants, non-selective MAOIs, or selective MAO-B inhibitors. The interaction between these drugs may cause sweating, mental change/strange behavior, muscle stiffness, loss of consciousness, or death. Intake of food and liquid should be avoided 5 minutes before and after Zelapar administration.

Who should not take Zelapar?

Do not take Zelapar if you are allergic to selegiline or any of its other ingredients. Also, do not take Zelapar if you are taking meperidine; Zelapar should not be taken with this type of analgesic. It should also not be administered with the pain medicines: tramadol, methadone, and propoxyphene.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Zelapar?

Mention all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Zelapar. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history before beginning Parkinson's disease therapy.

What is the usual dosage?

Adults: The usual starting dose of Zelapar is 1.25 milligrams (mg) once per day for at least 6 weeks. After 6 weeks, the dosage of Zelapar may be increased to 2.5 mg once per day.

Safety and effectiveness in patients under the age of 16 have not been established.

How should I take Zelapar?

Zelapar should be taken in the morning, before breakfast and without any liquids.

Do not try to push Zelapar through the back foil of the container; instead, peel the back off the wrapper to remove the medication. With dry hands, immediately place the tablet(s) on the tongue which will rapidly disintegrate. Avoid any foods and liquid 5 minutes before and after taking Zelapar.

What should I avoid while taking Zelapar?

While being treated with Zelapar, avoid pregnancy, breastfeeding, and certain drugs.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Zelapar?

If Zelapar is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zelapar with the following: dextromethorphan, MAOIs, meperidine, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and tricyclic antidepressants.

What are the possible side effects of Zelapar?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: back pain, dizziness, headache, nasal infection, nausea, pain, sleeplessness, swelling of the mouth, uncontrolled muscle movements, upset stomach, hallucinations

Can I receive Zelapar if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Zelapar during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Zelapar?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.

How should I store Zelapar?

Store at room temperature.