Selegiline, also known as L-Deprenyl, is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) that treats Cushing's Disease and Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (senility). Selegiline requires a prescription from your veterinarian.
Dogs
Selegiline increases the concentration of a nervous system messenger chemical called dopamine. Higher levels of dopamine improve many cognitive processes. Treating Cushing's Disease has traditionally been centered on suppressing the adrenal glands production and release of cortisone. However, this approach has a high potential for side effects. Selegiline has allowed for a new approach by suppressing the pituitary gland directly.
Because Selegiline belongs to a class of drugs called Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI) it should not be given with antidepressants such as Prozac. Do not use in pregnant or nursing animals. If any serious side effects occur (difficulty breathing, hives, agitation, swelling of the lips, tongue or face), stop giving Selegiline and seek emergency veterinary medical attention. Make sure you tell your veterinarian what other medications you are giving your pet.
Anipryl (Pfizer Animal Health), Eldepryl (Somerset)
Selegiline (see-ledge'-a-leen)
Selegiline, also known as L-deprenyl, is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOi) used in dogs for the treatment of Cushing's disease and canine cognitive dysfunction. It is not known specifically how selegiline works. However, it is believed that selegiline prevents the breakdown of dopamine. Selegiline may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this guide.
Selegiline should not be given if the pet is taking meperidine. Tell your veterinarian about any other medical conditions your pet has. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating.
Selegiline is a prescription medication FDA approved for veterinary use in the treatment of Cushing's disease caused by a pituitary tumor in dogs. Selegiline is also used to treat canine cognitive dysfunction. Selegiline is available as 5mg tablets. The usual initial starting dose to treat Cushing's disease in dogs is 0.45mg per pound given once a day in the morning. If no results within 2 months may increase to 0.9mg per pound once a day. If still no response after one month of the increased dose, reevaluate the pet. The dose for canine cognitive dysfunction is 0.2-0.45mg per pound. It may take up to one month or more to see improvement. Do not give more of this medication than is prescribed without consulting your veterinarian. Selegiline may cause drowsiness or dizziness.
Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Allow pet to drink plenty of water. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Store selegiline at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children and pets.
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not give a double dose of the medication.
Selegiline may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Do not give higher doses than those prescribed.
If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving selegiline and seek emergency veterinary medical attention; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips, tongue or face; hives), a severe headache, restlessness, agitation, or irritability, sweating, convulsions, uncontrollable or irregular movements. Other less serious side effects may occur. Continue giving selegiline and talk to your veterinarian if your pet develops dizziness or drowsiness, nausea, abdominal pain or diarrhea, insomnia, mild confusion, agitation or anxiety, dry mouth. Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the animal.
Before giving selegiline tell your veterinarian if your pet is also taking fluoxetine or meperidine. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over the counter medicines.
Do not give more of this medication than is prescribed without consulting your veterinarian. Selegiline may cause drowsiness or dizziness.
Store this product at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.