MAO-B Inhibitor: What It Is and Why It Matters

When working with MAO-B inhibitor, a class of drugs that block the enzyme monoamine oxidase‑B, slowing dopamine breakdown in the brain. Also known as Monoamine oxidase B inhibitor, it plays a crucial role in managing neurological conditions where dopamine levels are low.

Two of the most talked‑about agents in this group are Selegiline, a selective, irreversible MAO‑B inhibitor often marketed as Eldepryl and Rasagiline, a newer, irreversible MAO‑B inhibitor sold under the brand Azilect. Both target the same enzyme, but MAO‑B inhibitor therapy isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all; Selegiline tends to be used at lower doses for neuroprotection, while Rasagiline offers a longer half‑life and can be started at therapeutic doses right away. This difference creates a clear semantic link: the drug choice influences onset speed, side‑effect profile, and how doctors combine it with other Parkinson’s meds.

How MAO-B Inhibitors Fit Into Parkinson’s Disease Treatment

Parkinson’s disease is characterized by the loss of dopamine‑producing neurons, leading to motor symptoms like tremor and rigidity. By inhibiting MAO‑B, these drugs reduce dopamine breakdown, effectively boosting the neurotransmitter’s availability. The relationship can be described as: MAO‑B inhibition enables higher dopamine levels, which improves motor control. This triple—MAO‑B inhibitor, dopamine, Parkinson’s disease—captures the core therapeutic logic. In practice, doctors often add a low‑dose MAO‑B inhibitor to levodopa or dopamine agonists to smooth out fluctuations and delay the need for higher levodopa doses.

Beyond the motor benefits, MAO‑B inhibition has neuroprotective claims. Some studies suggest that early, low‑dose Selegiline may slow neuronal loss, although the evidence isn’t unanimous. Rasagiline, with its stronger binding, shows similar trends in clinical trials. The key point for patients is that these drugs are not just symptom relievers; they may also influence disease progression. This adds another semantic connection: MAO‑B inhibitors affect disease trajectory, not just day‑to‑day symptoms.

When prescribing, clinicians watch for drug interactions, especially with other serotonergic agents, because MAO‑B inhibitors can raise serotonin levels and trigger serotonin syndrome in rare cases. They also monitor blood pressure, as some patients experience orthostatic hypotension. Dosing starts low—often 5 mg of Selegiline or 1 mg of Rasagiline—and is adjusted based on response and tolerability. Regular follow‑ups help catch side effects early and keep the therapeutic window optimal.

Now that you understand the basics—what MAO‑B inhibitors are, how Selegiline and Rasagiline differ, and why they matter for Parkinson’s disease—you’re ready to dive deeper. Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that compare these drugs to alternatives, explore safety tips, and break down dosing strategies. Whether you’re just starting to research or looking for detailed comparisons, the collection ahead offers practical insights to help you make informed choices.