Products
Rasagiline is commercially available in tablet form (Azilect). It has been approved in many countries since 2005. Generic versions were first released in 2015.
Structure and properties
Rasagiline (C12H13N, Mr = 171.24 g/mol) is an aminoindan derivative and has an asymmetric carbon atom. Therapeutic uses are found for the -enantiomer. It is present in drugs as rasagiline mesilate or rasagiline tartrate.
Effects
Rasagiline (ATC N04BD02) has indirect dopaminergic properties. The effects are due to selective and irreversible inhibition of monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B).
Indications
For the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The tablets are administered once daily and independently of meals.
Contraindications
Rasagiline is contraindicated in hypersensitivity, concomitant treatment with MAO inhibitors, pethidine, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, or St. John’s wort, and moderate to severe hepatic insufficiency.
Interactions
Rasagiline, like other MAO inhibitors, has a high potential for drug-drug interactions.
Adverse effects
Potential adverse effects include headache, dizziness, depression, hallucinations, joint pain and arthritis, flu-like syndrome, malaise, allergic reactions, skin cancers, rhinitis, and angina.
