What it is used for

Parkinson's disease, on its own or with levodopa to reduce "wearing off"

Read our guides:

Parkinson's disease

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Rasagiline is not commonly used off-label.

How it works

Rasagiline blocks an enzyme called monoamine oxidase B, which breaks down dopamine in the brain. More dopamine is available, which improves movement.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Rasagiline can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

headache
flu-like symptoms
joint pain
indigestion
low mood
uncontrolled movements when taken with levodopa

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

urges you cannot control, such as gambling or shopping
seeing or hearing things that are not there
a new or changing mole

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

It interacts with some antidepressants, painkillers such as tramadol, and cough and cold remedies. Always check with a pharmacist.
Have regular skin checks.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.