Zelapar ODT (Selegiline)

Do’s

• Take Zelapar ODT exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. This includes dosage, frequency (once daily), and time of day (usually in the morning).
• Dissolve the tablet completely on your tongue. Don't swallow it whole or with saliva or water. Let it absorb through the mouth lining.
• Wash your hands before handling the tablet.
• Carefully remove the tablet from the blister pack by peeling back the foil, not pushing through it.
• Place the tablet on your tongue and wait for it to dissolve completely. Don't crush, split, or break it beforehand.
• Avoid eating or drinking for at least 5 minutes before and after taking Zelapar ODT to prevent swallowing the medication.
• Take Zelapar ODT consistently, ideally at the same time each day to maximize its effectiveness.
• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage adjustments and potential changes to your levodopa dose.
• Talk to your healthcare provider before stopping or changing the dose of Zelapar ODT or any other medications you take.

Don'ts

• Don't take more Zelapar ODT than prescribed or take it more often than once a day.
• Don't take Zelapar ODT late in the day as it may disrupt sleep.
• Don't swallow the tablet or the dissolved medication.
• Don't touch the tablet with wet hands.
• Don't crush, split, or break the tablet before taking it.
• Don't expect immediate results. It may take weeks to experience the full benefits of Zelapar ODT.
• Don't stop taking Zelapar ODT abruptly. Talk to your healthcare provider about gradually decreasing the dosage if needed.
• Don't hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider if the medication's effectiveness seems to decrease or your condition worsens.

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness
• Abdominal pain
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Stomach upset
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
• Headache
• Weakness
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Back pain
• Constipation

Serious Side Effects:

• Fainting
• Loss of balance
• Mental/mood changes (such as agitation, confusion, hallucinations, depression)
• Unusually strong urges (such as increased gambling, increased sexual urges)
• Worsening muscle stiffness/twitching
• Increased tremors or uncontrolled muscle movements
• Swollen ankles and feet
• Difficulty urinating
• Unusual weight gain
• Easy bleeding or bruising
• Black or tarry stools

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

Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies to selegiline or its ingredients.

Share your medical background with your healthcare provider, especially regarding:

• Pheochromocytoma (adrenal gland tumor)
• Cerebrovascular disease (stroke)
• Heart problems (heart failure, heart attack)
• Bleeding problems
• Peptic ulcers
• Severe/frequent headaches
• Diabetes
• Mental/mood disorders (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder)
• High blood pressure
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)

Selegiline may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you can do them safely. Limit alcohol and marijuana use, which can worsen these effects.

Before surgery, inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take (prescription, non-prescription, and herbal). You might need to stop taking selegiline beforehand.

If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or a condition requiring aspartame restriction, consult your healthcare provider about using Zelapar ODT safely.

Older adults may experience increased side effects, especially dizziness due to low blood pressure.

Zelapar ODT should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

It is unknown if selegiline passes into breast milk. Breastfeeding is not recommended while using Zelapar ODT and for 7 days after the last dose. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.