Phenelzine (Nardil)
Phenelzine (Nardil) explained
Phenelzine (Nardil) is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for treatment‑resistant depression and certain anxiety disorders; requires dietary restrictions to avoid hypertensive crisis.
FDA ApprovedPhenelzine (Nardil) helps treat
• Major depressive disorder (treatment‑resistant)
• Social anxiety disorder (off‑label)
• Panic disorder (off‑label)
additional medications
• Tricyclics/SSRIs/SNRIs (after washout)
• Augmentation strategies
• Psychotherapy
medication risks
• Hypertensive crisis with tyramine
• Serotonin syndrome with serotonergic drugs
• Orthostatic hypotension
side effects
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Weight gain
• Sexual dysfunction
FAQs
Q: What is phenelzine used for?A: Treatment‑resistant depression and select anxiety disorders.
Q: Dietary restrictions?
A: Avoid tyramine‑rich foods to prevent hypertensive crisis.
Q: Drug interactions?
A: Many—contraindicated with most antidepressants, decongestants, some pain meds.
Q: Washout periods?
A: Strict washouts when switching to/from MAOIs.
Q: Who is a candidate?
A: Patients who failed other therapies under specialist care.
