Key takeaways
Selegiline (Zelapar) and Rytary (carbidopa/levodopa) are both used to treat Parkinson's disease (PD), but they work in different ways and have different uses. Selegiline is a monoamine oxidase type B (MAO-B) inhibitor that helps prevent the breakdown of dopamine in your brain, extending the effects of levodopa. It's used as an add-on treatment for people already taking carbidopa/levodopa medications like Rytary. On the other hand, Rytary is a combination of carbidopa and levodopa that directly replaces dopamine in your brain and is used to treat PD symptoms like stiffness and slowed movement. Selegiline is available in tablets, capsules, and orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs), while Rytary is an extended-release capsule taken three times a day. Selegiline can cause high blood pressure if you eat foods high in tyramine, while Rytary can cause heart problems and may raise your risk for stomach bleeding. Selegiline is available in a generic form, but Rytary is not, which can make Rytary more expensive.
