Deprenyl (selegiline) in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.

Deprenyl combined with levodopa and a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor is of therapeutic value in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. This conclusion is substantiated by the improvement of akinesia, on-off phases, fluctuations of disability and rigidity. Levodopa doses can be reduced. The onset of adverse reactions is later and side-effects are even milder when compared to those with combined levodopa treatment. The most significant effect of deprenyl, however, is its ability to prolong the life expectancy of parkinsonian patients.