D-Deprenyl
Overview[edit]
D-Deprenyl, also known as selegiline, is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) that is primarily used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and major depressive disorder. It is a selective inhibitor of monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) at lower doses, which makes it useful in increasing dopamine levels in the brain.
Mechanism of Action[edit]
D-Deprenyl works by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme monoamine oxidase B, which is responsible for the breakdown of dopamine in the brain. By inhibiting this enzyme, D-Deprenyl increases the availability of dopamine, which is beneficial in conditions like Parkinson's disease where dopamine levels are reduced.
Clinical Uses[edit]
D-Deprenyl is primarily used in the management of Parkinson's disease. It is often used as an adjunct therapy to levodopa/carbidopa treatment. In addition to its use in Parkinson's disease, D-Deprenyl is also used in the treatment of major depressive disorder, particularly in patients who do not respond to other treatments.
Side Effects[edit]
Common side effects of D-Deprenyl include nausea, dizziness, insomnia, and orthostatic hypotension. At higher doses, it can lose its selectivity for MAO-B and inhibit monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) as well, which can lead to more severe side effects and dietary restrictions due to the risk of hypertensive crisis.
Pharmacokinetics[edit]
D-Deprenyl is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and is metabolized in the liver. It has a relatively long half-life, which allows for once-daily dosing in most patients. The metabolites of D-Deprenyl include amphetamine and methamphetamine, which can contribute to its stimulating effects.
History[edit]
D-Deprenyl was first synthesized in the 1960s and was initially investigated for its potential as an antidepressant. Its ability to selectively inhibit MAO-B was discovered later, leading to its use in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
