Parnate/Tranylcypromine
Parnate or Tranylcypromine is actually one of the well-known members of the class of drugs known as monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors.
Basically, it works on the brain chemicals – epinephrine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Normally, it increases concentrations of such chemicals to lessen or prevent symptoms of major depression or other similar conditions.
However, though a drug like Parnate is effective in a way, it is just considered as a second line of treatment and not as efficient as other drugs because of the severe side effects it can cause. Usually, it is only prescribed if other antidepressants fail, and only if the patient is under good supervision.
Uses of Parnate
Normally, Parnate is used to treat symptoms of depression like sleep pattern changes, agitation, loss of interest in usual activities, thoughts of suicide, fatigue, appetite changes, worthlessness, and problems relating to thinking and concentration. At times, it is also used to treat eating disorders, cocaine addiction, headaches, and even panic attacks.
Possible Side Effects
Parnate is actually a powerful drug that can in return cause some strong side effects such as:
- Restlessness
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Insomnia
- Weakness
- Muscle spasm
- Blood disorders
- Nausea
- Water retention
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Ringing in the ears
- Overstimulation
- Dry mouth
Special Warnings and Considerations
One of the most significant rules: never take Parnate with other powerful drugs. Combining Parnate with some other drugs like other MAO inhibitors, Tricyclics like Elavil, Anafranil, and Tofranil, or other similar drugs can cause adverse effects on you, particularly on your blood pressure. For proper guidance, always consult a doctor.
Similarly, never also combine Parnate with some foods that contain a high amount of a tyramine, or certain beverages or fruits such as:
- Anchovies
- Bananas and avocados
- Alcohol and large amounts of caffeine
- Beer, even nonalcoholic beer
- Yeast extracts
- Caviar Cheese particularly strong and aged varieties
- Chocolate
- Dried fruits like raisins, prunes, and figs
- Chianti wine
- Meat prepared with tenderizers
- Overripe fruit
- Yogurt
- Fava beans
Parnate on Pregnancy Issues
An antidepressant like Parnate is actually not advisable to be used by pregnant women, women planning to become pregnant and even nursing mothers because of some possible effects on the baby.
Hence, if in case you get pregnant by chance and currently taking Parnate, consult your doctor as soon as possible to get some proper advice and supervision.