From the FDA Drug Label
If a dose is missed, the patient should not double-up the dose of rasagiline tablets. The next dose should be taken at the usual time on the following day.
- Missed Dose Instruction: If a dose of rasagiline is missed, the patient should not take an extra dose.
- The next dose of rasagiline should be taken at the usual time on the following day. 1
From the Research
If you miss a dose of rasagiline, take it as soon as you remember on the same day, but if it's already the next day, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose at the scheduled time, as doubling up can increase the risk of side effects or potentially dangerous drug interactions 2. When considering the management of a missed dose of rasagiline, it's crucial to prioritize maintaining consistent blood levels of the medication to ensure its effectiveness in treating Parkinson's disease. Rasagiline works by inhibiting monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B), which breaks down dopamine in the brain, thereby helping to preserve dopamine levels that are depleted in Parkinson's disease.
Key Considerations
- Rasagiline is typically taken once daily, making it essential to maintain a consistent dosing schedule.
- Missing multiple doses may reduce the medication's effectiveness, while doubling up can increase the risk of side effects or potentially dangerous drug interactions, especially with certain foods containing tyramine or medications like antidepressants.
- If you frequently forget doses, consider setting a daily reminder or using a pill organizer to help maintain your treatment schedule.
Evidence-Based Guidance
The most recent and highest quality study on rasagiline, published in 2012, supports its use as monotherapy or as an adjunct to levodopa in the symptomatic treatment of adult patients with Parkinson's disease, with a recommended dose of 1 mg/day 2. This study, along with others 3, 4, 5, 6, highlights the importance of consistent dosing and the potential risks associated with missing doses or doubling up on rasagiline.
Practical Recommendations
To manage a missed dose effectively:
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember on the same day.
- If it's already the next day, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose at the scheduled time.
- Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. By following these guidelines and maintaining a consistent treatment schedule, patients can optimize the benefits of rasagiline in managing Parkinson's disease while minimizing the risks of side effects or drug interactions.