Final answer:
Selegiline, an MAO-B inhibitor, may cause several side effects such as agitation, anxiety, sleep problems, nausea, and abnormal heart rhythms. It can also aggravate depression and has the potential for serious, irreversible side effects and dangerous interactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Selegiline Side Effects
The medication Selegiline, a selective MAO-B inhibitor, is primarily used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and major depressive disorder. While it serves to prevent the breakdown of important neurotransmitters, its use can lead to a variety of side effects.
Common side effects of Selegiline include agitation, anxiety, sleep problems, nausea and vomiting, abnormal heart rhythms, low blood pressure, and muscular problems. These symptoms can vary from patient to patient. It is also important to note that Selegiline has a potential risk factor for inducing or exacerbating depression, which is particularly noteworthy as it may be prescribed as an antidepressant in some cases.
Due to the severity and sometimes irreversible nature of certain adverse reactions, careful consideration and monitoring are essential when prescribing Selegiline. This includes awareness of potentially lethal food and drug interactions due to its mechanism of inhibiting monoamine oxidase.