XADAGO (SAFINAMIDE)

Xadago Description

If you have mid- to late-stage fluctuating Parkinson’s disease and are experiencing “off” time with your current medication, meaning the beneficial effects of the drug do not appear to be working as well anymore, your doctor may prescribe a newer drug available to the US market called Xadago. There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease (PD), but Xadago can be taken with other PD medications to reduce the symptoms of tremors, muscle stiffness, and slow movements and increase your “on” time.

How Xadago Works

When taken as directed, the active ingredient called Safinamide is absorbed in your bloodstream and makes its way to your brain where it works as a monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) inhibitor. MAO-B is an enzyme that degrades dopamine, a chemical that plays a role in movement control. As an inhibitor of this enzyme, dopamine levels will increase and reduce your symptoms of PD. Xadago also inhibits the release of an amino acid called glutamate that seems to speed up the death of brain neurons that is also a contributing factor to the symptoms of PD.

Conditions Treated by Xadago

It can take years to develop the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative brain disorder that slowly stops the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter or brain chemical that is responsible for regulating your movements, body, and emotions. Researchers are trying to find evidence that early signs of PD may include sleep disorders, loss of your sense of smell (hyposmia), and constipation and hope to look for ways to stop the progression of PD with an early diagnosis. Parkinson’s disease is not a fatal condition, but complications from the symptoms are as they worsen over time.

Before You Receive a Xadago Rx

Explain other medical issues you have to your doctor and discuss any OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including herbal remedies and vitamin or dietary supplements. Your doctor can then determine if Xadago is right for your situation. Do not stop, start, or change the dosage of any meds without discussing it with your doctor as this could affect how Xadago will work for you.

Xadago Precautions and Recommendations

Until you know how Xadago will affect you, do not attempt any tasks that could be considered unsafe. Do not share this or any of your medications with others. Keep Xadago out of children’s reach. Attend all doctor appointments so your progress can be monitored and dose adjustments can be made if your doctor feels it is necessary.

Possible Side Effects of Xadago

• Headache
• Insomnia
• Dizziness
• Nausea