Selegiline Transdermal System: How It Works and What to Know

If you or someone you love is coping with Parkinson's disease, you’ve probably heard of a patch called selegiline. It’s a thin, skin‑applied film that delivers a steady dose of the drug right into the bloodstream. Unlike a tablet you swallow, the patch avoids the stomach and gives more consistent blood levels, which can mean smoother symptom control.

What the Patch Does

Selegiline belongs to a class of medicines called MAO‑B inhibitors. By blocking the enzyme monoamine oxidase‑B, it slows the breakdown of dopamine, the brain chemical that’s low in Parkinson’s. More dopamine translates to better movement control and fewer “off” periods. The transdermal delivery lets the drug bypass the gut, reducing the chance of nausea that some people feel with oral pills.

How to Use the Patch Correctly

First, pick a clean, dry spot on your upper arm, chest, or upper back. Rotate the site each time you change the patch to avoid skin irritation. Most doctors prescribe a 6‑mg/24‑hour patch, but you might start with a lower dose and step up. Apply the patch in the morning, press it firmly for about 30 seconds, then wash your hands.

Leave the patch on for 24 hours, then remove it by slowly peeling it off. Fold the used patch in half, sticky sides together, and throw it away—don’t reuse. Store any spare patches in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you miss a change, put on a new one as soon as you remember; don’t put two patches on at once.

Common side effects include mild skin redness, itching, or a slight headache. If you notice severe rash, dizziness, or trouble sleeping, call your doctor right away. Because selegiline raises dopamine, some people experience insomnia or vivid dreams; taking the patch earlier in the day can help.

Tips for Safe and Effective Use

Never combine the selegiline patch with other MAO‑B inhibitors or certain antidepressants without medical guidance—mixing can trigger dangerous blood pressure spikes. Also, avoid high‑tyramine foods (like aged cheeses, cured meats, and soy sauce) if you’re on higher doses, as they can cause a hypertensive crisis.

Keep a log of when you change the patch, any side effects, and how you feel each day. This record makes it easier for your doctor to fine‑tune the dose. If you travel across time zones, try to keep the 24‑hour schedule as close as possible to avoid gaps in medication.

Finally, remember that the patch is part of a broader Parkinson’s plan that may include physical therapy, diet, and other meds. Talk to your neurologist about how the selegiline system fits with your overall treatment. With the right routine, the patch can be a simple, reliable way to keep symptoms under control and improve daily life.