Nardil/Phenelzine
More or less, you have already heard of Nardil or Phenelzine if you have had some episodes of anxiety, depression or the like before.
Nardil is actually one of the popular monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) that is normally used to treat depression and even anxiety or phobias mixed with depression.
Normally, a MAO inhibitor like Nardil works by restoring more normal mood states through some chemicals found in the brain.
However, though actually really works, this also blocks MAO activity throughout the body that could eventually lead to some severe, even deadly side effects, most especially when taken with some foods and drugs that contain tyramine, a substance that has some adverse reactions when combined with drugs like Nardil.
Uses of Nardil
As mentioned, Nardil is used to treat depression and even anxiety or phobias mixed with depression. Normally, the depression being referred to can actually be classified as non-endogenous, atypical, or neurotic. At times, it can also a depression that has failed to respond to other antidepressant medications.
Possible Side Effects
- Insomnia
- Dry mouth
- Upset stomach
- Drowsiness
- Nightmares
- Fluid retention
- Appetite or weight changes
- Weakness or tiredness
- Excitement or anxiety
- Skin sensitivity to sunlight that usual
- Life-threatening
- Destruction of the liver
Special Considerations and Warnings
There are actually some foods, beverages and medications that are more or less not allowed to be combined with Nardil.
In terms of foods and beverages, the following are not allowed:
- Beer, even alcohol-free or reduced-alcohol beer
- Caffeine and chocolate (immoderate intake)
- Cheese, excluding cottage cheese and cream cheese
- Dry sausage like Lebanon bologna, Genoa salami, hard salami, and pepperoni
- Fava bean
- Smoked meat, fish, or the like
- Yeast extract, particularly large amounts of brewer’s yeast
- Yogurt
While in terms of drugs or medications, the following are not allowed:
- Drugs that may increase blood pressure like amphetamines, cocaine, allergy and cold medications, or methylphenidate
- Other MAO inhibitors
- L-dopa or other similar drugs
- Medications that may slow the central nervous system like alcohol and narcotics
Nardil on Pregnancy Issues
Even at present, the effects of Nardil during pregnancy and if Nardil appears on breastmilk have not yet been clarified. Hence, should you ever get pregnant or nurse an infant while taking Nardil, be sure to think of all the possible benefits and effects to you and your baby. Make sure the benefits will outweigh the effects and potential risk might as well.