Rasagiline
Information about Rasagiline
Rasagiline uses
Rasagiline is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
How rasagiline works
Rasagiline works by increasing the amount of dopamine, a chemical messenger that is needed to control movement in the brain.
Common side effects of rasagiline
Joint pain, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), Dyspepsia, Influenza like symptoms, Depression, Cough, Peripheral edema
Content Details
Last updated on:
27 Dec 2019 | 01:08 PM (IST)
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Expert advice for Rasagiline
- You have been prescribed Rasagiline to treat your symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
- It can be taken with or without food or as directed by your doctor.
- Be cautious while driving or doing anything that requires concentration as Rasagiline can make you very sleepy.
- Rasagiline can make you dizzy or lightheaded, especially when you suddenly stand up from sitting or laying down.
- Let your doctor know if you are also taking medicines for depression or mood disorders.
- Do not stop taking Rasagiline suddenly. Sudden stopping may cause confusion, stiff muscles and a high fever.
- As a precaution, foods high in tyramine (e.g. aged cheeses, air-dried meat, soy sauce, tap/draft beers and red wine) should be avoided when taking Rasagiline, as it may cause an unsafe rise in your blood pressure.
Frequently asked questions for Rasagiline
Rasagiline
Q. Does smoking have any effect on Rasagiline?
Yes, you should not smoke while on Rasagiline since smoking interferes with the working of Rasagiline. Smoking can decrease the rate at which your symptoms improve.
Q. What food is to be avoided while taking Rasagiline?
It is best if you avoid aged cheese, herring (fish), and red wine. But, since taking these foods with Rasagiline does not affect blood pressure or heart rate, these can be taken in very small amounts.
Q. Can Rasagiline cause cancer?
Patients of Parkinson’s disease are at a higher risk of skin cancer. The same risk is also seen in patients taking Rasagiline. Therefore, you should undergo periodic examinations to detect skin cancer if you are taking Rasagiline.
Q. Is it safe to drive if I am taking Rasagiline?
If you experience excessive daytime sleepiness or fall asleep suddenly, then avoid driving, operate machinery or work at heights during Rasagiline treatment.
Q. One morning I fainted after getting up from bed. Was it because of Rasagiline? What should I do?
It could be due to Rasagiline. If you feel lightheaded, dizzy or faint while getting up from bed, get up slowly. This will help your body get used to the change in position and blood pressure. If this problem continues or gets worse, talk to your doctor.
Q. I am experiencing a runny nose and cold since I began taking Rasagiline. Can I take Vicks?
No, you should not take Vicks or any other medicine containing ephedrine or pseudoephedrine. These cold remedies interfere with Rasagiline and are not recommended. Take your doctor’s advice to treat your runny nose and cold.