Eldepryl (Selegiline) 5 mg is a prescription medication used to treat Parkinson’s disease. It belongs to a class of drugs called MAO-B inhibitors (monoamine oxidase type B inhibitors), which help increase dopamine levels in the brain.

Quick Overview

• Brand name: Eldepryl

• Generic name: Selegiline

• Strength: 5 mg

• Drug class: Selective MAO-B inhibitor

• Prescription required

What It’s Used For

• Parkinson’s disease (as an adjunct to levodopa/carbidopa)

  • Helps control motor symptoms (tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement)

  • May prolong the effectiveness of levodopa

• Sometimes used off-label for major depressive disorder (at higher doses or in patch form in some countries)

How It Works

Selegiline works by inhibiting monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B), an enzyme that breaks down dopamine in the brain. By reducing dopamine breakdown, Eldepryl helps boost and stabilize dopamine levels, improving motor control in Parkinson’s disease.

How to Take It

• Typical dose:

  • 5 mg twice daily (usually taken at breakfast and lunch to avoid insomnia)

• Taken with or without food

• Used alongside levodopa/carbidopa in most cases

Common Side Effects

• Insomnia (especially if taken late in the day)

• Nausea

• Dry mouth

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Headache

• Confusion or hallucinations (especially in elderly)

Serious Risks

• Serotonin Syndrome: If taken with SSRIs, SNRIs, or other antidepressants

• High blood pressure (hypertensive crisis): Rare at low doses, but more likely at higher doses or with tyramine-rich foods

• Drug interactions: With certain antidepressants, opioids, decongestants, stimulants

Avoid If:

• You’re taking SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, or other MAOIs

• You have untreated hypertension

• You are using sympathomimetic drugs (some cold meds, diet pills)

• You plan to eat tyramine-rich foods while on higher doses

 Summary

Eldepryl (Selegiline) 5 mg is a well-established Parkinson’s disease medication that helps extend dopamine activity and improve motor control—especially when added to levodopa therapy. It’s generally well-tolerated but requires careful monitoring for interactions and timing (to avoid insomnia and serotonin syndrome