Eldepryl Uses

Eldepryl is used for treating the symptoms of Parkinson's disease in adults. This medication works by helping to increase the amount of a certain chemical in the brain (dopamine). A dopamine deficiency is thought to be responsible for many of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Off-label Eldepryl uses include the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, depression, and schizophrenia.

 

Uses of Eldepryl: An Overview

Eldepryl® (selegiline hydrochloride) is a Parkinson's disease medication. It belongs to a group of medications known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). It is only approved for use in combination with carbidopa-levodopa medications (such as Sinemet®, Sinemet® CR, or Parcopa®). Eldepryl is specifically designed for people who are experiencing a reduced response to their carbidopa-levodopa therapy.
 
Parkinson's disease results from the loss of neurons in a region of the brain that controls movement. This creates a shortage of the neurotransmitter (brain-signaling chemical) known as dopamine, causing movement problems that are characteristic of Parkinson's disease. The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is not currently known.
 
Depending on the severity of a person's symptoms, Parkinson's disease treatment can include:
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;