Chemical Information
- English Name: Selegiline Hydrochloride
- CAS Number: 14611-52-0
- Molecular Formula: C13H18ClN
- Molecular Weight: 223.74 g/mol

Pharmacological Actions

Selegiline Hydrochloride is primarily utilized in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and major depressive disorder. It operates through the following key mechanisms:

1.     Monoamine Oxidase-B (MAO-B) Inhibition:

o    Selegiline is a selective irreversible inhibitor of the enzyme monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B). MAO-B is involved in the metabolism of dopamine in the brain. By inhibiting this enzyme, selegiline increases the levels of dopamine, which is beneficial for managing symptoms of Parkinson's disease, including motor control.

2.     Neuroprotection:

o    The inhibition of MAO-B by selegiline also reduces the production of free radicals derived from the oxidative deamination of monoamines. Consequently, it potentially offers neuroprotective effects by reducing oxidative stress and neuronal damage.

3.     Antidepressant Effect:

o    Selegiline is used as an adjunct in the management of major depressive disorder due to its ability to increase the levels of monoamine neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin by inhibiting their breakdown. This effect helps to alleviate depressive symptoms.

4.     Modulation of Dopaminergic Activity:

o    By increasing the central availability of dopamine, selegiline enhances dopaminergic neurotransmission, thus improving the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, such as tremor, stiffness, and bradykinesia.