Side Effects of Selegiline

Although most people tolerate selegiline fairly well, there are potential side effects of the medication. Some of the most common side effects of selegiline include nausea, dizziness, and stomach pain. In most cases, selegiline side effects are typically minor and easily treated. However, serious side effects can also occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms such as chest pain, depression, or hallucinations.

 

An Introduction to Side Effects of Selegiline

As with any medicine, selegiline hydrochloride (Eldepryl®) may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. Many people tolerate it fairly well. If side effects do occur, they are often minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. However, serious selegiline side effects are also possible.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with selegiline. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of selegiline side effects with you.)
 

Serious Side Effects of Selegiline

Selegiline has been thoroughly studied in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occurred in a group of people taking the drug were documented and then compared to the side effects that occurred in another group of people taking a placebo (a "sugar pill" that does not contain any active ingredients). As a result, it was possible to see what side effects occurred, how often they appeared, and how they compared to the group not taking the medicine.

 

Some side effects with selegiline are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. Although most of these serious side effects are rare, a few may be common. Serious side effects of selegiline include, but are not limited to:
 

 

    • Headaches
    • Feelings of a rapidly or forcefully beating heart (palpitations)
    • A sore or stiff neck
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Sweating, with a high fever (or sometimes with cold, clammy skin)
    • Sensitivity to light
    • A rapid heart rate (tachycardia) or low heart rate (bradycardia)
    • Chest pain or throat tightness
    • Dilated (wide open) pupils

 

 

    • Dizziness
    • Lightheadedness
    • Fainting

 

  • Signs of an allergic reaction, including:

 

    • Unexplained rash
    • Hives
    • Itching
    • Swelling of the mouth or throat
    • Wheezing
    • Difficulty breathing.

 

(Side Effects of Selegiline Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;