Rasagiline (Azilect – Teva), a monoamine oxidase-type B (MAO-B) inhibitor, was recently approved by the FDA for once-daily oral treatment of Parkinson’s disease (PD). It can be taken alone for treatment of early disease or with levodopa/carbidopa (Sinemet, and others) for advanced disease. Selegiline (Eldepryl, and others), the first MAO-B inhibitor marketed in the US, has been available since 1988; a new lower-dose disintegrating tablet (Zelapar) was recently approved.

DRUGS FOR PARKINSON’S DISEASE — PD is characterized by loss of dopamine-containing neurons in the substantia nigra. Levodopa/carbidopa is considered the most effective treatment, but after 2 to 5 years, most patients develop motor complications including dyskinesias and fluctuations in therapeutic response. Dopamine agonists such as pramipexole (Mirapex) or ... more      

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