Selegiline Transdermal Patch (Cont.)

Alternatives to the Selegiline Transdermal Patch

Depression, even in its most severe form, is highly treatable. As with many illnesses, getting depression treatment early is more effective and reduces the chance of recurrence.
 
The most common forms of treatment for depression are medication (antidepressants) and psychotherapy ("talk therapy"). In some cases of severe depression, healthcare providers may recommend electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Some people may also try complementary or alternative treatments for depression (see Natural Remedies for Depression).
 
While most monoamine oxidase inhibitors are usually used as a last resort when other antidepressants have failed, the selegiline transdermal patch is an option that may be considered much earlier. Because the selegiline transdermal patch (when used at the lowest dose) is less likely to interact with foods, it can be much easier to take, compared with other MAOIs. However, as with any drug, it is possible that side effects may occur during treatment with the selegiline transdermal patch or that the medicine may not work as well as needed. In these cases, your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative to the selegiline transdermal patch. Some examples of substitute depression medications include:
 
  • Other monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
  • Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
  • Norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants.
     
(Click Emsam Alternatives to learn more about alternatives to the selegiline transdermal patch. Click Dealing With Depression to learn other ways of managing depression.)
 
(Selegiline Transdermal Patch Continued: Page 7)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;