Q. I cannot tolerate oral antidepressant medications because of unacceptable side effects. My doctor has prescribed EMSAM, a skin patch, but it is very expensive.
Does this medicine work for depression and can I buy it safely from Canada?
A. EMSAM (selegiline transdermal system) is a unique antidepressant medication. It works differently from medicines such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft) or venlafaxine (Effexor).
We were shocked to discover that the price for a month’s supply runs as much as $1400! The manufacturer offers a $500/month rebate coupon on its website, which may help somewhat. Canadian discount pharmacies sell EMSAM for roughly $1200 per month, so there isn’t a huge savings.
We are sending you our Guide to Dealing with Depression with more details about EMSAM and other approaches to treating this disabling disorder. Studies have found that this skin patch is safe and effective in treating depression and less likely than other antidepressants to cause weight gain or sexual side effects (Journal of Affective Disorders, Nov., 2013).
