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Table of Contents
What is Xadago?
Xadago is classified as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor type B (MAO-B). Its mechanism of action involves enabling dopamine, a chemical in the brain, to remain effective for extended periods. Low dopamine levels are linked to Parkinson’s disease. Xadago is administered alongside levodopa and carbidopa to address “wearing-off” episodes, characterized by muscle stiffness and loss of muscle control in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
Warnings
It is imperative not to use Xadago in the presence of severe liver disease. Additionally, informing your doctor about all concurrently used medicines is crucial, as certain medications can lead to undesired or hazardous effects, even fatal, when used within 14 days of Xadago ingestion.
Before taking this medicine
Avoid Xadago if allergic to safinamide or in the presence of severe liver disease. Medications such as amphetamines, cough medicine with dextromethorphan, cyclobenzaprine, certain antidepressants, and opioid medicines should not be used within 14 days before or after Xadago intake. Ensure your doctor is informed about your medical history, including liver disease, blood pressure fluctuations, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, unusual urges, abnormal muscle movements, retinal problems, and sleep disorders.
The impact of Xadago on pregnancy and breastfeeding is not fully known; hence, pregnant individuals or those planning pregnancy should disclose this to their doctor. Breastfeeding while using Xadago is not recommended.
Related/similar drugs
ropinirole, carbidopa / levodopa, pramipexole, benztropine, Exelon, Gocovri
How should I take Xadago?
Compliance with your doctor’s prescription is essential when taking Xadago. The medication, usually taken once daily at the same time, can be ingested with or without food. Regular blood pressure checks are necessary, and proper storage at room temperature away from moisture and heat is advised.
Dosing information
The initial dose of Xadago is 50 mg orally once a day, with a maintenance dose of 100 mg orally once a day after 2 weeks, based on individual need and tolerability. The maximum dose is 100 mg per day. Xadago is effective only in combination with levodopa/carbidopa.
What happens if I miss a dose?
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, with the skipped dose avoided if the next scheduled one is imminent. Extra medicine should not be taken to compensate for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Emergency medical attention or contacting the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 is necessary in case of an overdose.
What to avoid
During Xadago use and for 14 days post-discontinuation, the consumption of tyramine-rich foods, such as pickled items and aged, cured, smoked, or fermented meats, should be avoided. This is crucial because ingesting tyramine while on Xadago can elevate blood pressure to dangerous levels, leading to life-threatening side effects. Vigilance in recognizing and avoiding these foods is paramount. Some individuals may experience drowsiness during the day, cautioning against activities like driving or operating machinery until the impact of the medication is understood.
Xadago side effects
Seek immediate medical help if signs of an allergic reaction occur, including hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Contact your doctor promptly if you experience vision changes, uncontrolled muscle movements, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or increased blood pressure. Common side effects may encompass involuntary muscle movements, falls, nausea, or sleep problems.
What other drugs will affect Xadago?
Inform your doctor about all current and newly initiated medications, particularly imatinib, irinotecan, lapatinib, methotrexate, metoclopramide, mitoxantrone, rosuvastatin, sulfasalazine, or topotecan. This list is not exhaustive, and interactions with prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products are possible.
