Afrelect 0.5mg Tablet

Introduction

Afrelect is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient Rasagiline. It is available in tablet form and is primarily used for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.

Uses

Afrelect is prescribed to patients with Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and coordination. It helps to improve the symptoms of the disease by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain, a chemical that is responsible for transmitting signals between nerve cells.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Afrelect may vary depending on the individual patient and their specific condition. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Typically, the recommended starting dose is 0.5 mg once daily, which may be increased to 1 mg once daily after a certain period of time if necessary. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water, and it can be taken with or without food.

Mechanism of Action

Rasagiline, the active ingredient in Afrelect, works by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B). This enzyme breaks down dopamine in the brain. By inhibiting MAO-B, Rasagiline helps to increase the levels of dopamine, thereby improving the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Dizziness
• Indigestion

In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur. These can include:

• Hallucinations
• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe allergic reactions

If you experience any of these serious side effects or if any side effects become bothersome or persistent, seek medical attention immediately.

Drug Interactions

Afrelect may interact with certain medications, including:

• Other MAO inhibitors
• Antidepressants
• Certain pain medications
• Certain herbal supplements

inform your healthcare professional about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements, to avoid any potential drug interactions.

Precautions

Before taking Afrelect, inform your healthcare professional if you have any known allergies or medical conditions, especially:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Liver disease
• Kidney disease

Additionally, certain medications, such as certain antidepressants and pain medications, may interact with Afrelect and cause a serious condition called serotonin syndrome. Avoid taking these medications while using Afrelect, unless specifically instructed by your healthcare professional.

Storage

Patient Tips

• Take Afrelect exactly as prescribed by your healthcare professional.
• Do not stop or change the dosage of the medication without consulting your doctor.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Avoid consuming foods that are high in tyramine, such as aged cheeses, cured meats, and certain fermented foods, as they may interact with Afrelect and cause a sudden increase in blood pressure.
• If you experience any new or worsening symptoms while taking Afrelect, contact your healthcare professional for further guidance.

Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.

References

• Azilect 1 mg Tablets (Health Professionals SmPC) Available at:
• Rasagiline (Drugs.com) [Accessed 2 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• rasagiline mesylate (RX) [Accessed 15 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Rasagiline (MedlinePlus) [Accessed 16 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Siddiqui MA, Plosker GL. Rasagiline. Drugs Aging. 2005;22(1):83-91; discussion 93-4. doi: 10.2165/00002512-200522010-00006. [Accessed 13 Jun. 2024] Available at: