Phenelzine - Drug Information

Generic Name : Phenelzine
Pronunciation : fen' el seen

ICD Code : Y49.1 | Therapeutic Classification : Psychotherapeutics

Trade Name(s) :

International - Nardil.

Why is Phenelzine Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a monoamine oxidase (MAOI) inhibitor, prescribed for depression. It increases the amounts of certain natural substances that are needed to maintain mental balance.

When should Phenelzine not to be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with history of alcoholism and hypersensitivity.
It should not be co-administered with dextromethorphan or with CNS depressants, other MAOIs, buspirone HCl, sympathomimetic drugs, serotoninergic drugs, concurrent administration of a MAO inhibitor. Patients should avoid high protein food, caffeine and high tyramine content food items.

What is the dosage of Phenelzine?

Initial dose: The recommended dose is 1 tablet (15 mg) three times a day.
Early Phase Treatment: Dosage should be increased to at least 60 mg/day.
Maintenance: 15 mg/day.

How should Phenelzine be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Phenelzine?

* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of asthma, mental disorder, lung inflammation, irregular heartbeat, sugar, epilepsy, overactive thyroid, Parkinson disease, blood disease, kidney problems, suicidal thoughts, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
* It may cause drowsiness or dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
* Avoid alcohol consumption.
* It may develop increased risk of suicidal thoughts in children and teenagers; watch them carefully.
* It may affect blood sugar level; monitor sugar level regularly while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Phenelzine?

Central Nervous System - Dizziness, headache, drowsiness, sleep disturbances, fatigue, weakness, tremors, twitching, movement disorders and overactive.
Gastrointestinal - Constipation, dry mouth and gastrointestinal disturbances.
Metabolic - Weight gain.
Heart - Low blood pressure and fluid retention.
Genitourinary - Sexual disturbances, urinary retention, ejaculatory disturbances and impotence.
Skin - Itching, skin rash and increased sweating.
Eye - Blurred vision and increased eye pressure.

What are the other precautions for Phenelzine?

* Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Phenelzine?

Store between 15° - 30°C.
Store it at room temperature and away from light.

Schedule H

Prescription drugs - Drugs to be sold only under the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner.