Nardil (Phenelzine)

Nardil (Phenelzine) Medication Information

Uses

Nardil is an antidepressant that is used to treat atypical clinically depressed patients. 

Dosage

The tablets are available in s15 mg strength.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Nardil include:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Edema
• Sexual disturbances

Speak with your doctor for a full list of side effects that apply to you if you are taking Nardil.

Precautions

As with other antidepressants, there is a risk of increased suicide ideation when patients first start taking Nardil. Monitor patients for any signs of symptoms of an increase in suicide risk. 

Nardil can cause an increase in manic phase when given to bipolar patients, and it can cause stimulation in schizophrenic patients. 

Interactions

The most common drug interactions with Nardil include:

• SSRIs
• SNRIs
• Guanethidine
• Other MAOis 

Speak with your doctor for more information and before starting a new medication with Nardil. 

Storage

Store at room temperature (59-86ºF). 

Pharmacist Tips

• Nardil has a lot of drug interactions, so patients taking Nardil should speak with their doctor if they are starting or stopping other medications. 
• Nardil can be titrated to meet the needs of the patient.
• Nardil will need to be tapered off if a patient decides to stop taking it. 

Phenelzine FAQs

What foods should be avoided with Nardil?

Foods high in tyramine should be avoided with Nardil. These include smoked or pickled meat, dried fruits, and wine.

How quickly does Nardil work?

It can take up to 6-8 weeks to see the full effect of Nardil.

What are the side effects of Nardil?

Some common side effects seen with Nardil include dizziness, somnolence, drowsiness, constipation, and upset stomach. 

Can Nardil cause mania?

Yes, Nardil has been seen to cause worsening mania in bipolar patients. 

Does Nardil cause weight gain?

Yes, Nardil can cause weight gain in some patients. 

Related Drugs

• Celexa
• Desyrel
• Effexor XR
• Fetzima
• Latuda
• Parnate
• Pristiq
• Rexulti
• Trintellix
• Wellbutrin XL

Reference:

Nardil {package insert}. New York, NY: Pfizer; 2007.

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2007/011909s038lbl.pdf