What is Selegiline Transdermal: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and More

Selegiline transdermal is a prescription medication patch that delivers medicine through your skin to treat major depressive disorder. This unique patch-based antidepressant works differently from pills because it bypasses your digestive system, allowing the medicine to enter your bloodstream directly through your skin.

The patch belongs to a class of medications called MAO inhibitors, which work by increasing certain brain chemicals that help improve your mood. You might know this medication by its brand name Emsam, and it's designed to be worn on your skin for 24 hours before being replaced with a fresh patch.

What is Selegiline Transdermal Used For?

Selegiline transdermal patches are primarily prescribed to treat major depressive disorder in adults. Your doctor may recommend this medication when other antidepressants haven't worked well for you or when you've experienced troublesome side effects from oral medications.

This patch form can be particularly helpful if you have difficulty swallowing pills or if you prefer a once-daily treatment option. Some doctors also consider it when patients need a medication that works differently from the more common types of antidepressants like SSRIs or SNRIs.

The transdermal route offers a steady, continuous delivery of medication throughout the day. This consistent dosing can help maintain more stable levels of the medicine in your system compared to taking pills multiple times daily.

How Does Selegiline Transdermal Work?

Selegiline transdermal works by blocking an enzyme called monoamine oxidase (MAO) in your brain. This enzyme normally breaks down important mood-regulating chemicals like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

By inhibiting this enzyme, the patch allows these "feel-good" brain chemicals to build up and remain active longer. Think of it like plugging a drain in your bathtub - the water (brain chemicals) can accumulate to higher, more beneficial levels.

The patch delivers the medication through your skin at a controlled rate over 24 hours. This steady absorption helps maintain consistent levels of the medicine in your bloodstream, which can lead to more stable mood improvements compared to the ups and downs sometimes seen with oral medications.

This is considered a moderately strong antidepressant that typically takes several weeks to show its full effects. The transdermal delivery system makes it unique among MAO inhibitors, as it can often be used with fewer dietary restrictions than oral MAO inhibitors.

How Should I Take Selegiline Transdermal?

Apply your selegiline patch to clean, dry, hairless skin on your upper body, arms, or thighs once every 24 hours. Choose a different spot each day to prevent skin irritation, and avoid areas where clothing might rub against the patch.

Before applying a new patch, remove the old one and wash the area gently with soap and water. Press the new patch firmly for about 30 seconds to ensure it sticks well to your skin.

You can shower, bathe, or swim while wearing the patch, but avoid hot tubs, saunas, or prolonged sun exposure on the patch area. Heat can increase the amount of medicine absorbed through your skin, potentially causing side effects.

Try to apply your patch at the same time each day to maintain consistent medication levels. If the patch falls off, apply a new one immediately and continue with your regular schedule the next day.

How Long Should I Take Selegiline Transdermal For?

Most people need to use selegiline transdermal patches for several months to a year or longer, depending on their response to treatment. Your doctor will typically want you to continue the medication for at least 6-12 months after your depression symptoms improve.

It usually takes 4-6 weeks to notice the full benefits of this medication, though some people may start feeling better sooner. Don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate results - antidepressants often work gradually.

Your doctor will monitor your progress and may adjust your treatment plan based on how well you're responding. Some people may need to use the patches long-term to maintain their mental health, while others might be able to discontinue them after a period of stability.

Never stop using the patches suddenly without talking to your doctor first. Stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms and may lead to your depression returning.

What Are the Side Effects of Selegiline Transdermal?

Like all medications, selegiline transdermal can cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. The most common side effects are generally mild and often improve as your body adjusts to the medication.

Here are the side effects you're most likely to encounter, starting with the most common:

• Skin irritation, redness, or itching where you apply the patch
• Headache and dizziness
• Trouble sleeping or unusual dreams
• Nausea or upset stomach
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue or feeling unusually tired

These common side effects usually become less bothersome within the first few weeks of treatment. If skin irritation persists, try rotating patch placement sites more frequently.

Some people may experience more concerning side effects that require immediate medical attention. While these are less common, it's important to be aware of them:

• Severe high blood pressure with symptoms like severe headache, chest pain, or vision changes
• Signs of serotonin syndrome: confusion, rapid heartbeat, high fever, or muscle rigidity
• Unusual changes in mood or behavior, including thoughts of self-harm
• Severe allergic reactions with rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing
• Fainting or severe dizziness when standing up

Contact your doctor right away if you experience any of these serious side effects. Most people tolerate selegiline transdermal well, but staying alert to these warning signs helps ensure your safety.

Who Should Not Take Selegiline Transdermal?

Selegiline transdermal isn't safe for everyone, and your doctor will carefully review your medical history before prescribing it. Certain medical conditions and medications can create dangerous interactions with this patch.

You should not use selegiline transdermal if you have any of these conditions:

• Current use of other antidepressants, especially SSRIs, SNRIs, or other MAO inhibitors
• Severe heart disease or uncontrolled high blood pressure
• History of stroke or brain tumors
• Severe liver or kidney disease
• Eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia
• Bipolar disorder (unless specifically monitored)
• Allergy to selegiline or patch components

These conditions can either worsen with selegiline use or increase your risk of serious side effects. Your doctor needs this information to keep you safe.

Additionally, certain medications must be stopped before starting selegiline transdermal. The waiting period between medications is crucial for your safety:

• Most antidepressants require a 2-week break before starting selegiline
• Fluoxetine (Prozac) requires a 5-week break due to its long-lasting effects
• Pain medications containing meperidine, tramadol, or methadone
• Certain cough and cold medications containing dextromethorphan
• Stimulant medications for ADHD

Your doctor will create a safe transition plan if you're switching from another antidepressant. Never stop your current medication or start selegiline without professional guidance.

Selegiline Transdermal Brand Name

The brand name for selegiline transdermal is Emsam, manufactured by Somerset Therapeutics. This is currently the only FDA-approved transdermal form of selegiline available in the United States.

Emsam patches come in three different strengths: 6 mg/24 hours, 9 mg/24 hours, and 12 mg/24 hours. Your doctor will determine which strength is right for you based on your individual needs and response to treatment.

Unlike generic versions of many medications, there isn't currently a generic form of the selegiline transdermal patch available. This means you'll be getting the brand-name Emsam when your prescription is filled.

Selegiline Transdermal Alternatives

If selegiline transdermal isn't right for you, several alternative antidepressants can help treat major depressive disorder. Your doctor might consider these options based on your specific symptoms and medical history.

Other antidepressant classes that work differently include:

• SSRIs like sertraline (Zoloft) or escitalopram (Lexapro)
• SNRIs such as venlafaxine (Effexor) or duloxetine (Cymbalta)
• Atypical antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) or mirtazapine (Remeron)
• Tricyclic antidepressants for certain cases
• Other MAO inhibitors in oral form, though these require stricter dietary restrictions

Each of these alternatives has different benefits and potential side effects. Your doctor can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option.

Non-medication treatments can also be effective alone or in combination with antidepressants. These might include cognitive behavioral therapy, other forms of psychotherapy, or lifestyle changes like regular exercise and stress management techniques.

Is Selegiline Transdermal Better Than Other Antidepressants?

Selegiline transdermal isn't necessarily "better" than other antidepressants, but it offers unique advantages for certain people. The patch form provides steady medication delivery and may work when other antidepressants haven't been effective.

Compared to oral MAO inhibitors, selegiline transdermal typically requires fewer dietary restrictions, especially at lower doses. This makes it more convenient for daily life while still providing the benefits of MAO inhibition.

The transdermal delivery system can be particularly helpful if you have stomach problems with oral medications or prefer once-daily dosing. Some people also find the steady absorption helps reduce the mood fluctuations sometimes seen with pills.

However, other antidepressants like SSRIs or SNRIs might be better first choices for many people because they have fewer drug interactions and don't require the same precautions. Your doctor will consider your complete medical picture when recommending the best treatment for you.