For how long can Selegiline potentially delay the use of carbidopa and levodopa?

Selegiline is a monoamine oxidase B inhibitor that is primarily used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. It works by preventing the breakdown of dopamine, thereby increasing its availability in the brain. By enhancing dopaminergic activity, Selegiline can provide symptomatic relief in patients with Parkinson's disease, particularly in the early stages of the condition.

The primary mechanism by which Selegiline delays the need for carbidopa and levodopa is through its ability to improve the dopaminergic tone. This can allow patients to maintain better control over their symptoms for an extended period before the more standard treatment (levodopa combined with carbidopa) becomes necessary. Clinical studies suggest that Selegiline can prolong the time before initiating treatment with carbidopa and levodopa for approximately one year in many patients.

Therefore, the duration of up to one year, as indicated in the correct answer, aligns with clinical evidence showing that Selegiline can effectively postpone the advancement to carbidopa and levodopa therapy, allowing for better management of symptoms in the initial stages of Parkinson's disease without immediately resorting to these more potent medications.

Other time frames provided in the question, such as 6 months, 2 years, and