Selegiline is an irreversible inhibitor of monoamine oxidase (MAO). Here is key information about its transdermal formulation, the selegiline transdermal system (EMSAM®).
Major depressive disorder (MDD)
Starting dose and target dose: 6 mg/24 hrs.
Based on clinical judgment, dose increases should occur in increments of 3 mg per 24 hours (up to a maximum dose of 12 mg per 24 hours) at intervals of no less than 2 weeks.
Geriatric Use: The recommended dose for elderly patients (65 years and older) is EMSAM® 6 mg per 24 hours daily.
With EMSAM® 9 mg per 24 hours and 12 mg per 24 hours:
Tyramine-rich foods and beverages should be avoided beginning on the first day of EMSAM® 9 mg/24 hours or 12 mg/24 hours treatment, and should continue to be avoided for 2 weeks after a dose reduction to EMSAM® 6 mg per 24 hours or following the discontinuation of EMSAM® 9 mg per 24 hours or 12 mg per 24 hours.
1. Apply to dry, intact skin on the upper torso (below the neck and above the waist), upper thigh or the outer surface of the upper arm once every 24 hours
2. Dose increases should occur in increments of 3 mg per 24 hours (up to a maximum dose of 12 mg per 24 hours) at intervals of no less than 2 weeks
Dosage forms and strengths
Transdermal System: 6 mg/24 hours, 9 mg/24 hours and 12 mg/24 hours
Please refer to Prescribing Information (see link below) for complete discussion of dosage, administration, warnings and precautions, contraindications, etc.
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