Zelapar Uses

Zelapar is primarily used for treating the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. However, a healthcare provider may occasionally prescribe it to treat other health conditions. Some off-label Zelapar uses include treating Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and depression. This prescription medication works by helping to increase dopamine levels in the brain, which may be responsible for many symptoms of Parkinson's.

Zelapar Uses: An Overview

Zelapar® (orally disintegrating selegiline) is a Parkinson's disease medication. It belongs to a group of medications known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). It is approved for use in combination with carbidopa-levodopa medications (such as Sinemet®, Sinemet CR®, or Parcopa®). Zelapar is specifically designed for people who are experiencing a reduced response to their carbidopa-levodopa therapy. Zelapar is taken once a day and is particularly useful for people who have trouble swallowing tablets, as it dissolves rapidly on the tongue.
 

What Is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's disease results from the loss of neurons in a region of the brain that controls movement. This creates a shortage of the neurotransmitter (brain-signaling chemical) known as dopamine, causing the movement problems characteristic of Parkinson's. The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is not currently known.
 
Although early symptoms of Parkinson's disease may be subtle, people will eventually develop a characteristic tremor (trembling or shaking) of a limb, especially when the body is at rest. As the disease progresses, symptoms may worsen and new ones may appear.
 
Depending on the severity of a person's symptoms, Parkinson's disease treatment can include:
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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