Phenelzine
Generic Name:
Phenelzine
Brand Names:
Nardil
Phenelzine Description:
Phenelzine belongs to a class of drugs known as monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. The medication is used to treat depression in patients that have not responded to alternative medications.
Monoamine oxidase is an enzyme that decreases amounts of the neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Experts believe that the presence of low levels of these chemicals may play a role in the development of depression. By blocking the reductive effects of monoamine oxidase, phenelzine increases the amount of these chemicals retained in the brain, potentially rectifying a key imbalance in patients with depression.
Phenelzine Side Effects:
Because phenelzine inhibits an enzyme that is widely present throughout the body, many different side effects may occur with use of the medication. Some of the most common include:
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Drowsiness, fatigue or weakness
- Dry mouth
- Weight gain
- Edema
- Headache
- Tremors or twitching
- Sexual changes
- Sleeping problems
Phenelzine has been associated with other, more serious side effects.
For more information, see our phenelzine side effects page.
Phenelzine Uses:
Phenelzine is indicated for the treatment of patients with depression who have been classified as atypical, nonendogenous or neurotic. Such patients usually experience a mixture of anxiety and depression and often suffer from phobic and hypochondriacal characteristics.
Due to the possibility of severe side effects, phenelzine should not be used as a first-line treatment option for patients with depression. The medication is generally used in patients who have not responded to alternative treatment methods.
Phenelzine Interactions:
Patients should speak with their doctor about the use of any medications, vitamins or supplements before taking phenelzine.
Several prescription medications may adversely interact with phenelzine including:
- Barbiturates
- Citalopram
- Dexfenfluramine
- Fluoxetine
- Fluvoxamine
- Guanethidine
- Paroxetine
- Rauwolfia
- Sertraline
- Venlafaxine
Several over-the-counter medications may also interact with phenelzine including:
- Asthma medications
- Cold or cough medications
- Diet pills
- Hay fever medications
- Lozenges containing dextromethorphan
- Medications containing L-tryptophan
- Nasal decongestants
- Pep pills
Phenelzine may interact with other medications or substances that are not listed above.
Phenelzine Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Phenelzine dosages may vary among patients. Your doctor will determine the size and frequency of your dosage depending upon your individual needs. It is important to follow the dosage guidelines established by your doctor.
Phenelzine is administered in the form of a 15 mg oral tablet. Patients beginning treatment with phenelzine generally take one 15 mg tablet three times daily. This daily dosage of 45 mg is typically increased to 60 mg or, in some cases, 90 mg in the early phases of treatment. This dosage may be continued for several weeks until the maximum benefit of phenelzine is achieved. Afterward, patients will undergo a gradual dose reduction until a low maintenance dose is reached. This dose may be as little as 15 mg taken every day or every other day.
Patients should not abruptly stop taking phenelzine unless otherwise instructed by their doctor.
Missing a Dose of Phenelzine
If you forget to take a dose of phenelzine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosage schedule. Do not consume a double dose of this medication to compensate for a missed dose.
Phenelzine Overdose
An overdose of phenelzine may result in potentially life-threatening complications. Seek immediate medical attention if you believe you may have taken too much of this medication.
Phenelzine FDA Approval:
June 9, 1961
Phenelzine Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
Black Box Warning
Phenelzine, like other antidepressants, carries a black box warning stating that young adults taking the medication may be at an increased risk of suicide. Patients should discuss these risks with their doctor before beginning treatment with phenelzine. Patients taking the medication should be closely monitored for abnormal changes in behavior or suicidal thinking.
Other Warnings
Patients taking phenelzine may be at risk of developing potentially life-threatening changes in blood pressure. Patients taking the medication should monitor their blood pressure regularly and avoid the consumption of certain foods and other medications listed on the phenelzine side effects page that may increase the risk of developing this complication.
Recalls
In 2003, Pfizer Inc. recalled certain lots of phenelzine because the medications did not meet stability requirements. The actions constituted a Class III recall.
In 2008, Advantage Dose LLC recalled certain lots of phenelzine because the medications may not have been produced in accordance with the Good Manufacturing Practices established by the FDA. The actions constituted a Class II recall.
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September 9, 2010, 3:38 pm
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September 8, 2010, 3:39 pm
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September 7, 2010, 9:59 am
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September 2, 2010, 12:51 pm
