Generic Eldepryl

Introduction

Eldepryl contains the mono‑amine oxidase‑B (MAO‑B) inhibitor selegiline. It is classified as a central nervous system (CNS) active agent and is listed under the “General health” medication group in the United Kingdom. The primary medical purpose of oral Eldepryl is to improve motor function in patients with Parkinson’s disease, either as monotherapy in early disease or as an adjunct to levodopa in more advanced stages. Selegiline is also the active component of the transdermal patch marketed for major depressive disorder, although the patch formulation is not sold under the Eldepryl name in the UK. The drug is manufactured by Lundbeck (or licensed partners) and is subject to regulation by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

What is Eldepryl?

Eldepryl is a tablet formulation that contains the selective irreversible MAO‑B inhibitor selegiline hydrochloride. The product is a brand‑name preparation marketed in several European countries, including the UK. Selegiline was first synthesised in the 196s and introduced clinically for Parkinson’s disease in the 197s. In the United Kingdom, Eldepryl is prescribed under the marketing authorisation held by Lundbeck A/S.

Other well‑known selegiline brand names include Zelapar (oral, United States) and Emsam (transdermal patch, United States and some EU markets). All contain the same active compound, selegiline, but differ in dosage strength, formulation, and licensed indications.

Our online pharmacy provides the generic version of selegiline, matching the potency and quality of the original brand, at a price that is close to the manufacturer’s cost.

How Eldepryl Works

Selegiline binds irreversibly to the active site of mono‑amine oxidase‑B, an enzyme responsible for breaking down dopamine in the brain. By inhibiting MAO‑B, selegiline raises the synaptic concentration of dopamine, which helps to compensate for the dopaminergic neuron loss that characterises Parkinson’s disease.

The inhibition is “irreversible,” meaning that the enzyme remains blocked until new enzyme molecules are synthesised—a process that can take 1–2 weeks. Consequently, the therapeutic effect of a single dose persists beyond the plasma half‑life of the drug (approximately 1–2 hours). In the transdermal system, selegiline also inhibits MAO‑A at higher plasma levels, providing antidepressant activity through increased levels of serotonin and norepinephrine.

Onset of clinical benefit in Parkinson’s disease typically occurs within 4–6 weeks of consistent dosing, although individual response varies. Because the drug does not replace dopamine, it is usually combined with levodopa when disease progression demands more robust dopaminergic stimulation.

Conditions Treated with Eldepryl

• Parkinson’s disease (PD) – oral selegiline (Eldepryl) is approved in the UK as a monotherapy for early, mild PD (Hoehn & Yahr stage I–II) and as an adjunct to levodopa in patients who experience motor fluctuations. Approximately 145 000 people live with PD in the UK (Parkinson’s UK, 2022); the drug helps reduce “off” periods and may allow lower levodopa doses, decreasing dyskinesia risk.

• Major depressive disorder (MDD) – the transdermal selegiline patch (Emsam) is licensed for treatment‑resistant depression. While this formulation is not sold as Eldepryl, the same active molecule provides antidepressant effects via MAO‑A inhibition at higher systemic concentrations.

• Off‑label investigations – selegiline has been studied as an adjunct in cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, and as neuroprotective therapy in early PD, but these uses are not currently approved by the MHRA.

Who is Eldepryl For?

• Early‑stage Parkinson’s patients who have mild motor symptoms and are not yet requiring levodopa. The drug can delay the need for levodopa initiation.

• Patients on levodopa who experience end‑of‑dose “off” periods, motor fluctuations, or dyskinesias. Adding selegiline may smooth the response curve and allow dose reduction of levodopa.

• Individuals without contraindicating conditions such as severe liver disease, a history of hypersensitivity to selegiline, or concurrent use of non‑selective MAO inhibitors.

• People who can adhere to dietary restrictions (low‑tyramine diet) when receiving higher doses that may affect MAO‑A activity, especially when the transdermal formulation is considered for depression.

Eldepryl is not appropriate for patients with known pheochromocytoma, severe cardiovascular disease, or those taking serotonergic agents (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs) that could raise the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Nausea or gastrointestinal upset
• Insomnia or vivid dreams (especially with higher doses)
• Headache
• Dizziness or orthostatic hypotension

Rare

• Skin rash or pruritus
• Elevated liver enzymes (monitoring recommended in patients with hepatic impairment)
• Hypertensive crisis when consuming high‑tyramine foods (e.g., aged cheese, cured meats)

Serious

• Hypertensive emergency – sudden, severe rise in blood pressure (>180/110 mmHg) triggered by tyramine‑rich meals or interaction with sympathomimetic drugs. Requires immediate medical attention.
• Serotonin syndrome – risk when combined with serotonergic agents (SSRIs, MAO‑A inhibitors, linezolid, tricyclic antidepressants). Symptoms include agitation, hyperreflexia, hyperthermia, and diaphoresis.
• Neuroleptic malignant‑like syndrome – rare, but can occur in patients abruptly discontinuing dopaminergic therapy while on selegiline.

Drug–Drug Interactions

• Non‑selective MAO inhibitors (phenelzine, tranylcypromine) – contraindicated; additive MAO inhibition may precipitate hypertensive crisis.
• Sympathomimetic agents (pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine) – may cause excessive pressor responses.
• Serotonergic drugs (SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclics, St. John’s Wort) – increase risk of serotonin syndrome.
• Levodopa – combination is intentional; dose adjustments of levodopa may be required to avoid dyskinesia.
• Antihypertensives – orthostatic hypotension may be potentiated; monitor blood pressure after dose changes.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard dosing for Parkinson’s disease – the usual starting dose is 5 mg once daily (tablet 5 mg). The dose may be increased to 10 mg daily after at least four weeks, depending on clinical response and tolerability. The maximum recommended daily dose is 10 mg for oral tablets.

• Administration – swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. The tablet can be taken with or without food; however, taking it with a light snack may reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.

• Missed dose – if a dose is forgotten and it has been less than 12 hours since the scheduled time, take the missed tablet as soon as remembered. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not double‑dose.

• Overdose – symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, hypotension, and, rarely, hypertensive crisis. In the event of suspected overdose, seek emergency medical care immediately; activated charcoal may be administered if presentation is early.

• Precautions – avoid excessive alcohol, which can increase sedation. Patients with hepatic impairment should have liver function monitored at baseline and periodically.

• Dietary considerations – at doses ≤5 mg daily, tyramine restriction is generally unnecessary. At 10 mg daily, patients should limit high‑tyramine foods (aged cheeses, fermented soy products, cured meats, certain alcoholic beverages) to reduce hypertension risk.

Buying Eldepryl from Our Online Pharmacy

Eldepryl can be purchased safely from our online pharmacy in the UK. We operate as a pharmacy broker service that partners with licensed overseas suppliers, allowing us to offer genuine, manufacturer‑grade selegiline at a price close to the production cost.

• Affordable pricing – because we source directly from approved manufacturers, the cost is significantly lower than many high‑street pharmacies while maintaining the same quality standards required by the MHRA.

• Verified quality – each shipment is accompanied by a certificate of analysis and batch number, confirming that the product meets strict European Pharmacopeia specifications.

• Guaranteed delivery – we provide discreet packaging and a choice of express (usually 7 days) or standard airmail (approximately 3 weeks) delivery options, with tracking available for every order.

• Online‑only access – for patients who have limited access to a local pharmacy, travel constraints, or who prefer the privacy of home delivery, our service offers a convenient, confidential route to obtain Eldepryl.

All orders are processed in compliance with UK import regulations for personal use of prescription medicines. We respect patient privacy and adhere to data‑protection standards throughout the purchasing process.

FAQ

• Is Eldepryl available in both brand‑name and generic forms in the UK?
  Yes. The original brand‑name tablet is marketed as Eldepryl, while generic selegiline tablets contain the identical active ingredient and are sold at a lower price. Both are authorised by the MHRA for the same indications.

• What is the typical appearance of an Eldepryl tablet?
  Eldepryl tablets are usually white, round, and imprinted with “5 mg” on one side. The exact shape may vary slightly between batches, but the imprint and colour remain consistent for identification.

• Can Eldepryl be stored in a bathroom cabinet?
  The medication should be kept at a controlled room temperature of 15‑30 °C, away from excess moisture and direct sunlight. A bathroom cabinet is prone to humidity, which can degrade the tablet; a kitchen cupboard or bedroom drawer is preferable.

• Do I need to avoid alcohol while taking Eldepryl?
  Moderate alcohol consumption does not usually interfere with selegiline’s MAO‑B inhibition, but excessive drinking may exacerbate dizziness or orthostatic hypotension. Patients should discuss their alcohol intake with a healthcare professional.

• Are there special travel considerations for Eldepryl?
  When traveling abroad, keep the medication in its original packaging with a copy of the prescription or a physician’s letter. Ensure the container is sealed to avoid inspection issues, and store it in your hand luggage to protect it from temperature extremes.

• Does the transdermal selegiline patch contain the same dose as the oral tablet?
  No. The patch delivers selegiline through the skin at a continuous rate (e.g., 6 mg/24 h) and is primarily approved for depression. The oral tablet provides a fixed dose taken once daily and is approved for Parkinson’s disease.

• Can I take Eldepryl with a low‑tyramine diet?
  At the standard 5 mg daily dose, a strict low‑tyramine diet is not required. For the 10 mg dose, it is advisable to limit high‑tyramine foods to reduce the risk of hypertensive episodes, especially if other MAO‑A‑inhibiting drugs are added.

• What are the legal limits for personal import of Eldepryl into the UK?
  Individuals may import up to a three‑month supply of a prescription‑only medicine for personal use, provided they have a valid prescription from a UK‑registered prescriber. Our online pharmacy assists customers in meeting these requirements.

• How does selegiline differ from other Parkinson’s drugs such as rasagiline?
  Both are irreversible MAO‑B inhibitors, but selegiline (Eldepryl) is the older molecule and is available in tablet and patch forms, whereas rasagiline is a newer, reversible inhibitor offered only as tablets. Clinical guidelines sometimes prefer rasagiline for its favorable side‑effect profile, but selegiline remains an effective option, especially where cost is a concern.

• Is there any risk of weight gain with long‑term selegiline therapy?
  Weight changes are not a prominent side effect of selegiline. Some patients report modest weight loss due to gastrointestinal upset, while others experience stable weight. Regular monitoring of body mass is recommended as part of overall disease management.

• What should I do if I experience vivid dreams while on Eldepryl?
  Vivid or disturbing dreams are a known effect, particularly at higher doses. If they interfere with sleep, discuss dose reduction or timing adjustment with your prescriber; taking the tablet earlier in the day may help.

Glossary

Mono‑amine oxidase‑B (MAO‑B)

An enzyme found primarily in the brain that metabolises dopamine and other catecholamines. Inhibiting MAO‑B increases dopamine availability, which is beneficial in Parkinson’s disease.

Irreversible inhibitor

A drug that forms a permanent bond with its target enzyme, rendering it inactive until the body synthesises new enzyme proteins. Selegiline’s binding to MAO‑B lasts for the lifespan of the enzyme molecule.

Hypertensive crisis

A severe, rapid increase in blood pressure that can lead to organ damage. In the context of MAO‑B inhibition, it is often triggered by ingestion of foods high in tyramine.

Serotonin syndrome

A potentially life‑threatening condition caused by excess serotonergic activity, presenting with agitation, hyperreflexia, fever, and autonomic instability. It may occur when selegiline is combined with other serotonergic agents.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Eldepryl is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Eldepryl for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.