Key takeaways
Pramipexole and rasagiline (Azilect) are both used to treat Parkinson's disease (PD), but they work differently and have different uses. Pramipexole is a dopamine agonist that helps improve movement problems by raising dopamine levels in the brain. It is also used to treat restless legs syndrome (RLS). Pramipexole is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms, with the immediate-release needing to be taken three times a day and the extended-release taken once daily. On the other hand, rasagiline is a monoamine oxidase type B (MAO-B) inhibitor that prevents the breakdown of dopamine, thus increasing its levels in the brain. Rasagiline is taken once a day and is only used for PD. While both medications can cause sleepiness and dizziness, rasagiline has specific dietary restrictions due to its interaction with tyramine-rich foods, which can dangerously raise blood pressure. Additionally, rasagiline should not be taken with certain antidepressants due to the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Both medications are available in lower-cost generic forms.
