Description

Selgin (Selegiline) 5mg

Selgin (Selegiline) 5mg  is a prescription medication used to treat Parkinson’s disease and sometimes major depressive disorder (MDD). It works by increasing levels of dopamine, a key brain chemical involved in movement and mood.

Quick Overview

• Brand name: Selgin

• Generic name: Selegiline

• Strength: 5 mg

• Drug class: Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI) – specifically a selective MAO-B inhibitor

• Prescription only

Used For

1. Parkinson’s Disease

   • Often used with levodopa/carbidopa to enhance and prolong its effect

   • Helps reduce tremor, rigidity, slowness of movement

2. Major Depressive Disorder (at higher doses or as a transdermal patch in some countries)

How It Works

Selgin inhibits MAO-B, an enzyme that breaks down dopamine in the brain. By slowing this breakdown, selegiline increases dopamine levels, helping improve movement symptoms in Parkinson’s and stabilize mood in depression.

How to Take It

• Parkinson’s Disease dose:

  • Usually 5 mg twice daily (morning and midday)

  • Avoid taking it late in the day to prevent insomnia

• Important note: It is often added to levodopa therapy once effectiveness of levodopa begins to wear off

Common Side Effects

• Insomnia

• Dizziness or lightheadedness (especially when standing up)

• Nausea

• Dry mouth

• Hallucinations (more common in elderly)

Serious Risks

• Serotonin Syndrome: Can occur if taken with SSRIs, SNRIs, or certain antidepressants

• Hypertensive crisis: Rare, but possible if taken with tyramine-rich foods (like aged cheese or cured meats) at higher doses or if MAO-A is also inhibited

• Hallucinations or confusion, especially in older adults or in advanced Parkinson’s

Drug & Food Interactions

• Avoid combining with:

  • SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline)

  • SNRIs (e.g., venlafaxine)

  • Tricyclic antidepressants

  • Other MAO inhibitors

  • Tyramine-rich foods (at high doses)

• Always wait at least 2 weeks between switching between selegiline and antidepressants to avoid dangerous interactions

Summary

Selgin (Selegiline) 5 mg is a dopamine-boosting MAOI mainly used for Parkinson’s disease. It helps enhance movement control, especially when combined with levodopa. It has fewer dietary restrictions at low doses, but higher doses require caution with food and drug interactions.