What is Azilect (rasagiline)?
Azilect, also known as rasagiline, is a prescription medication used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. It belongs to a class of drugs called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Azilect works by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain, helping to improve motor symptoms and reduce the progression of the disease. It is typically taken orally once daily. Azilect is often prescribed as an adjunct therapy with levodopa for maximum effectiveness. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, and joint pain. It is important to follow the healthcare professional’s instructions and inform them about any existing medical conditions or other medications being taken.
Prescription Required.
Product of Canada.
Shipped from Canada.
| Prescription Required. | Product of Canada. | Shipped from Canada. |
What is Azilect (Rasagiline Mesylate)?
Azilect is a medication prescribed to treat symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease, particularly resting tremor and hypokinesia. The active ingredient rasagiline belongs to a class of drugs called monoamine-oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, and works by increasing dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin levels in the brain. Azilect is sometimes used alongside other Parkinson’s medications such as levodopa. Taking rasagiline can mitigate the end-of-dose fluctuation often seen when levodopa starts to wear off.
Dosage
Azilect is to be taken orally, with or without food, once daily. Tablets come in two strengths: 0.5mg and 1mg. The prescribed dosage is dependent on the severity of your condition, your current medication schedule, and how you respond to treatment. It is important that you take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase your own dose or take more often than prescribed, as this can increase your risk of developing side effects. As this medication is intended to ease the difficult movements often seen with Parkinson’s Disease, take care not to overexert yourself when you experience improvement in your symptoms. Gradually increase your activity so as to allow your body to adjust to changes in balance and coordination.
Storage
This medication should be stored in its original packaging until it is time to take it. Store Azilect tablets in a place that will not exceed 25°C and keep out of direct sunlight and away from moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not consume expired product. Dispose of expired or surplus medication responsibly, following the directions of your doctor or pharmacist. Do not flush medication down the toilet or sink. Do not share this medication with anyone else, even if they have the same condition as you.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
All medication comes with the risk of developing side effects. It is important to recognise that your doctor has determined that the risk of side effects is outweighed by the potential benefits this medication can provide. Side effects differ between individuals, and it is possible you will not experience any. Common side effects associated with Azilect include:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Joint pain
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain/discomfort
- Dry mouth
If you experience any of these symptoms and they concern you, or they worsen or do not resolve on their own, contact your doctor.
Severe Side Effects
Occasionally, Azilect can lead to severe side effects that should be taken seriously. These include:
- Fainting/loss of consciousness
- Loss of balance
- Severe mood swings or mental changes (depression, hallucinations)
- Worsening muscle twitching or stiffness
- Worsening uncontrollable movements
- Swelling of the ankles or legs
- Bruising easily
- Unusual strong urges (e.g., gambling or sexual urges)
Sudden Sleep Attacks
Occasionally, rasagiline use has been shown to cause sudden sleep attacks randomly during daily activities. This is often not preceded by any drowsiness and can occur at any time. For this reason, it is important that you do not operate heavy machinery (including driving) until you know how this medication affects you. This risk is exacerbated by alcohol consumption or other medications that have drowsiness as a side effect. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned.
Serotonin Toxicity
As this medication functions by increasing serotonin (as well as dopamine and norepinephrine) levels in the brain, it can on rare occasions lead to serotonin toxicity. The risk of this occurring increases if you take other medications that also increase serotonin alongside Azilect. If you notice symptoms such as tachycardia, hallucinations, coordination loss, severe dizziness, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, unusual fever, or unusual agitation, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Hypertensive Crisis
Occasionally, Azilect can lead to the sudden onset of extremely high blood pressure, known as hypertensive crisis. This can be fatal, and the risk of occurrence increases with certain drug and food interactions (see Interactions & Contraindications). If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek emergency medical assistance immediately: severe headache, irregular heartbeat, unexplained chest pain, stiff neck, severe nausea, clammy skin, widened pupils, double/blurred vision or other visual abnormalities, or photophobia.
Allergic Reaction
Allergic reactions to Azilect are rare but not impossible. Do not take this medication if you are allergic to the active ingredient rasagiline, or any of its constituents. Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, including rash, itching, facial swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
This is not an exhaustive list of side effects. If you notice any abnormalities or changes within yourself, contact your doctor immediately.
Warnings & Precautions
Ensure your doctor is aware of your complete medical history, including all allergies. Do not take Azilect if you are allergic to the active ingredient rasagiline or any of its constituents. Tell your doctor if you have a history of allergic reactions, particularly to other medications. Your doctor should be aware of your personal and family medical history, particularly of heart disease (including heart attacks, heart failure, and coronary artery disease), stroke, hypertension, liver disease, mood disorders (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression), diabetes, thyroid disorders, pheochromocytoma, and sleep disorders.
Azilect can cause dizziness or drowsiness, which is exacerbated by alcohol or marijuana use. As stated, do not operate heavy machinery (including driving) until you are aware how this medication affects you. Limit alcohol intake, and discuss with your doctor if you regularly use cannabis.
Prior to having surgery, all medical personnel involved in your care should be aware of your complete medication schedule.
This medication should only be taken during pregnancy when absolutely necessary. If you think you could be pregnant, intend to become pregnant, or do become pregnant while taking Azilect, discuss what to do next with your doctor.
It is not known whether this medication can pass into breast milk. If you need to breast feed while taking Azilect, consult your doctor first.
When two or more medications are taken concurrently, they can interact with one another, potentially changing how one or more function in the body and increasing the risk of side effects. It is important that you keep a comprehensive list of all the medications you take on a regular basis (including prescription and non-prescription) and share this with your doctor. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Some medications that can interact with Azilect include: appetite suppressants, attention deficit disorder medications (e.g., atomoxetine), apraclonidine, buspirone, cyclobenzaprine, dextromethorphan, methyldopa, metoclopramide, tryptophan, tyramine, rizatriptan, sumatriptan, and valbenazine.
As mentioned, the risk of developing serotonin toxicity increases if Azilect is taken alongside other drugs that also increase serotonin levels. These include MDMA (“ecstasy”), St. John’s wort, tramadol, opioids (fentanyl, meperidine, methadone), antidepressants (maprotiline, mirtazapine, SSRI’s, SNRI’s), among others.
Interactions can still occur even if the product is taken weeks before or after Azilect. Your medication schedule may need to be adjusted to accommodate Azilect, so ask your doctor for clarification, and follow their instructions carefully. Tell them if you have taken any of the listed medications two weeks prior to starting rasagiline, and if you have taken fluoxetine within five weeks of starting.
Other MAO inhibitors taken alongside Azilect can cause a serious and potentially fatal interaction. Do not take other MAO inhibitors while you are taking rasagiline, or two weeks before and after taking rasagiline. These include isocarboxazid, linezolid, metaxalone, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline, and tranylcypromine, among more.