Neurosciences
This leaflet is to help you understand your medicine. It is not intended to be a comprehensive guide about your medicine and it is not an official manufacturer’s patient information leaflet.
Always consult the manufacturer’s Patient Information Leaflet for the most up to date information regarding Monoamine B inhibitors.
Why have I been prescribed a Monoamine B (MAOB) inhibitor?
In Parkinson’s dopamine is lacking in certain areas of the brain, MAOB inhibitors increase and sustain the level of dopamine in the brain. MAOB inhibitors are used to help improve some of the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s (slowness and poverty of movement, rigidity and tremor).
Are MAOB inhibitors safe to take?
MAOB inhibitors are generally safe to take as directed but may not suit everyone. There are some conditions where MAOB inhibitors are not always used.
Tell your Parkinson’s team if any of the following apply to you:
- If you are allergic to any of the ingredients
- If you have liver disease
If you have taken Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors, used for depression, in the last 14 days (for example, tranylcypromine or phenelzine)
If you are taking any other antidepressants
How should I take MAOB inhibitors?
Rasagiline and selegiline are taken by mouth as tablets. Selegiline also comes as a tablet that dissolves on the tongue. Both rasagiline and selegiline are taken once daily.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is at or near your usual dose, just take the next dose (do not double your dose).
Do I need any blood tests?
Generally, patients taking MAOB inhibitors don’t need regular blood tests. Your Parkinson’s team will continue to monitor your blood pressure.
What unwanted effects of MAOB inhibitors might I experience?
Unfortunately, you may experience some side effects. Most of these are quite mild and should go away after a week or two as you get used to your MAOB inhibitor.
The table (below) is a guide to what to do if you get any side effects.
Not everyone will get the side effects shown, and most people don’t.
| Side effects | How common? | What should I do? |
|---|---|---|
| Headache | Very common | This should be short lived, contact your Parkinson’s team if it persists |
| Drowsiness | Common | If affected do not drive or operate machinery |
| Dizziness | Common | Do not drive or operate machinery. If problem persists, contact your Parkinson’s team |
| Dyskinesia (wriggly movements). | Very common | Contact your Parkinson’s team to review your dosage and, or timings |
| Nausea and vomiting | Common | This should be short lived, contact your Parkinson’s team if it persists |
| Hallucinations | Common | Contact your Parkinson’s team |
| Allergic reaction or fever | Rare | Seek urgent medical attention if there is swelling of the face or throat |
| Mental health problems – impulse control problem | Unknown | Contact your Parkinson’s team |
| Urge to take more Parkinson’s medication | Unknown | Contact your Parkinson’s team |
Dyskinesia (involuntary wriggly movements)
Dyskinesia is often a sign that the dosage of levodopa may need review, please contact your Parkinson’s team to review the dose and, or medication timings.
What about alcohol?
Generally you should not drink alcohol while taking a MAOB inhibitor because both can make you drowsy, so taking them together may increase this further. However, once you are used to taking your medication you might wish to try a glass of your normal drink. If you do not suffer any adverse effects, you may be able to drink in moderation.
It is important that you do not stop taking your rasagiline or selegiline just because you fancy an alcoholic drink.
If my Parkinson’s is well controlled, can I stop taking it?
NO. This can be dangerous and result in a serious deterioration in your Parkinson’s. You and your Parkinson’s team will need to decide when you can stop taking it. Never change your dose or stop taking your MAOB inhibitor yourself.
Something not right?
Please contact the Parkinson’s Advice Line at your earliest opportunity.
Out of hours please contact NHS 111 or visit A&E in an emergency.
Contact us
If you require further information please contact us on:
Telephone: 01642 854319 (Monday, Wednesday and Friday 0900-1100)
Email: [email protected]
Patient experience
South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust would like your feedback. If you wish to share your experience about your care and treatment or on behalf of a patient, please contact The Patient Experience Department who will advise you on how best to do this.
This service is based at The James Cook University Hospital but also covers the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton, our community hospitals and community health services.
To ensure we meet your communication needs please inform the Patient Experience Department of any special requirements, for example; braille or large print.
T: 01642 835964
E: [email protected]