Rasagiline: what it does and who it helps

Rasagiline is a once-daily pill used for Parkinson's disease. It belongs to a class called MAO-B inhibitors. For some people it slows symptoms and can reduce "off" time when taken with levodopa. Doctors also use it alone in early Parkinson's to help with movement and daily function.

How to take rasagiline

Most people take rasagiline once a day, with or without food. Typical doses are 0.5 mg or 1 mg per day — your doctor will pick the right one. Don’t split or crush the tablet unless your pharmacist says it’s okay. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it’s close to the next dose. Don’t double up.

Keep a list of all your medicines. Rasagiline interacts with several common drugs, so your doctor needs to know everything you take: prescription meds, over-the-counter pills, supplements, and herbal products.

Common side effects and what to watch for

Minor side effects include headache, joint pain, indigestion, dizziness, and dry mouth. These often fade after a few weeks. More serious reactions are rare but need quick action: sudden high blood pressure, chest pain, trouble breathing, severe nausea, or a high fever. Also watch for mood changes, new or worse depression, or suicidal thoughts — tell your doctor right away.

Rasagiline can raise the risk of serotonin syndrome when mixed with certain antidepressants or some cough medicines. Signs include high temperature, fast heartbeat, tremor, confusion, and severe sweating. If you see these, stop the drug and seek emergency care.

Tyramine reactions (the so-called "cheese effect") are unlikely at normal rasagiline doses, but very large amounts of aged cheeses or certain supplements could cause blood pressure spikes. Ask your doctor about diet rules if your dose changes or you take other interacting drugs.

Don’t combine rasagiline with strong opioids like meperidine or some migraine medicines. Also avoid mixing with many antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs), certain cold medicines, and St. John’s wort. Your prescriber will tell you how long to wait after stopping other drugs before starting rasagiline.

Before starting, share your medical history: heart disease, high blood pressure, liver problems, or a history of mental health issues all matter. Pregnant or breastfeeding? Talk to your doctor — rasagiline isn’t usually recommended without careful discussion.

Store rasagiline at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. If you have questions about side effects, interactions, or how rasagiline fits into your treatment plan, call your prescriber or pharmacist. Small changes in routine or other medicines can make a big difference with Parkinson’s drugs, so check first before changing anything.