Azilect (Rasagiline)

Do’s

• Take Azilect exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically once daily, with or without food.
• Be upfront with your healthcare provider about all medications (prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal) you take to avoid interactions.
• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage carefully. Don't adjust your dose or take it more often than prescribed.
• Continue taking Azilect regularly even if you feel well. 

Don't

• Don't increase your Azilect dosage or take it more frequently than prescribed.
• Don't stop taking Azilect without your healthcare provider's guidance.
• Don't consume large amounts of tyramine-rich foods, especially aged cheeses, while taking Azilect and for 2 weeks after stopping it. Tyramine can interact with Azilect and cause a serious high blood pressure reaction.
• Don't stop taking it abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider, as some conditions worsen with sudden withdrawal. Your healthcare provider may gradually decrease the dose.

Common side effects of Azilect may include:

• Headache
• Joint pain
• Indigestion
• Dry mouth
• Insomnia or strange dreams
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Cough or flu-like symptoms
• Swelling in hands or feet

Serious side effects of Azilect are rare but may include:

• Allergic reactions: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• High blood pressure reaction
• Pale skin
• Shortness of breath
• Irregular pulse
• Confusion
• Delirium 
• Involuntary muscle movements
• Unusual changes in mental state or muscle movements

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Azilect,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Before taking Azilect (rasagiline), inform your healthcare provider about any allergies to rasagiline or other medications.

Tell your healthcare provider about pre-existing conditions. Discuss any past medical history, especially:

• Heart disease (coronary artery disease, heart attack, chest pain, heart failure)
• Stroke
• High blood pressure
• Severe/frequent headaches
• Liver disease
• Mental/mood disorders (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression)
• Diabetes
• Overactive thyroid
• Pheochromocytoma (adrenal gland tumor)
• Sleep disorders

Azilect may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Don't drive, operate machinery, or do anything requiring alertness until you feel normal. Limit alcohol and marijuana use which can worsen these effects.

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take (including Azilect) before undergoing surgery.

Azilect should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before using it if you are pregnant.

It is unknown if Azilect passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding to determine if it's safe.