Overview of Tonus
Quick Facts
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Selegiline hydrochloride |
| Pharmacological Class | Selective Monoamine Oxidase B (MAO-B) Inhibitor |
| Form | Capsule, Tablet, Orally Disintegrating Tablet (ODT) |
| General Purpose | To support and enhance the brain’s dopamine activity |
| Origin | Synthetic derivative |
What Type of Medicine Is Tonus?
Tonus is a prescription pharmaceutical product whose active substance is selegiline hydrochloride, a synthetic, single-ingredient compound derived chemically from phenethylamine. It is clinically recognized for its role in supporting nervous system function, a primary feature of its classification as a selective Monoamine Oxidase B (MAO-B) inhibitor. This classification specifically denotes its target action compared to non-selective MAOIs, and Tonus is typically manufactured for use in adults.
Selegiline’s Mechanism of Action and General Purpose
The mechanism of action for selegiline is the irreversible inhibition of the MAO-B enzyme, which is the primary route for the metabolic breakdown of the neurotransmitter dopamine. By selectively blocking this enzymatic activity, selegiline increases the functional availability of dopamine in specific brain regions. Pharmacological studies confirm that this preservation effect leads to enhanced and sustained dopaminergic activity. The general purpose of this action is to provide support for improved stability and control of motor functions, a typical scenario for its use.
Pharmaceutical Form and Origin
The selegiline hydrochloride compound is formulated for oral (peroral) administration. It is typically supplied as a solid oral preparation, commonly available as a standard capsule or a conventional tablet, manufactured with appropriate pharmaceutical excipients. A differentiating factor for selegiline preparations is the availability of specialized delivery forms, such as the orally disintegrating tablet (ODT), which is designed to dissolve quickly without liquid. This diversity in form allows for different administration needs.
Regulatory References

