Side Effects. Dizziness, abdominal pain, dry mouth, nausea, stomach upset, trouble sleeping, and headache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist. Initial Treatment. EMSAM should be applied to dry, intact skin on the upper torso (below the neck and above the waist), upper thigh or the outer surface of the upper arm once every 24 hours. Applies to selegiline: oral capsule, oral tablet, oral tablet disintegrating. Other dosage forms: transdermal patch extended release; Along with its needed effects, selegiline (the active ingredient contained in Emsam) may cause some unwanted effects. Using EMSAM with certain antidepressants and certain pain, cold and cough symptom medicines may cause a potentially life-threatening problem called serotonin syndrome (See “What are the possible side effects of EMSAM?”). Emsam (selegiline transdermal) is used to treat major depressive disorder in adults. Includes Emsam side effects, interactions and indications. Emsam (selegiline transdermal system) is an antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder in adults. Common side effects of Emsam include: EMSAM transdermal systems are available in three strengths that deliver approximately 6 mg, 9 mg, or 12 mg of selegiline over 24 hours. Each corresponding system has an active surface area of 20 cm², 30 cm², or 40 cm² containing 20, 30, or 40 mg of selegiline, respectively. Side Effects. Drug information provided by: IBM Micromedex. Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention. Selegiline prevents the breakdown of chemicals in the brain that are often imbalanced in people with depression. Selegiline transdermal is used to treat major depressive disorder in adults and adolescents who are at least 12 years old. Selegiline may also be used for purposes not listed in this How to use Emsam Patch, Transdermal 24 Hours. Read the Medication Guide available from your pharmacist before you start using selegiline and each time you get a refill.