EMSAM is a prescription medicine used to treat a certain type of depression called Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). EMSAM belongs to the class of medicines known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI). EMSAM is a transdermal system (patch) you apply to your skin.

How long does Emsam take to work?

It may take up to 12 hours before you have these symptoms, and they may be worse 24 to 48 hours after you apply your EMSAM patch. What should I avoid while using EMSAM?

How does the Emsam patch work?

The once-a-day patch, called Emsam, works by delivering selegiline, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor or MAOI, through the skin and into the bloodstream. Selegiline isn’t a new drug. It was initially approved in capsule form for use in Parkinson’s disease.