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It says happened to me since I started taking this drug.

July 26
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A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

I have cut this drug from daily to every other day and I don't notice this effect as much.

July 26 (edited)
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Well done Joe that's great ๐Ÿ‘

July 26
MyParkinsonsTeam

That's a really important observation to flag! Xadago (safinamide) is indeed known to have some eye-related side effects. Slow dark adaptation โ€” meaning taking longer for your eyes to adjust when moving from bright light to a darker environment โ€” has been reported as a potential side effect of this medication.

This happens Show Full Answer

That's a really important observation to flag! Xadago (safinamide) is indeed known to have some eye-related side effects. Slow dark adaptation โ€” meaning taking longer for your eyes to adjust when moving from bright light to a darker environment โ€” has been reported as a potential side effect of this medication.

This happens because Xadago can affect the retina. The retina contains cells that are sensitive to light, and this drug may interfere with how those cells respond and recover after bright light exposure.

Here are some important steps to consider:

- Talk to your neurologist or prescribing doctor as soon as possible about this symptom
- Get an eye exam โ€” your doctor may recommend seeing an ophthalmologist to check your retinal health
- Do not stop taking Xadago suddenly without medical guidance, as this needs to be managed carefully
- Take precautions in the meantime, like wearing sunglasses outdoors and pausing before entering darker spaces to allow your eyes time to adjust safely

This is a known enough concern with Xadago that the FDA recommends regular eye monitoring for patients taking it, especially those with a history of eye conditions. Please don't delay bringing this up with your care team โ€” your eyesight is too important to wait on!

July 26
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

It has happened to me since I started taking it about 6 months ago. And Google's AI Gemini says that it can happen as it affects the retina. I now take the 100 mg tablet every other day. I see my neurologist in 2 days and will ask him about this.

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August 3

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