Parnate (Tranylcypromine)

What is Parnate?

Parnate (tranylcypromine) is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor.

What is Parnate used for?

Parnate is indicated for the treatment of major depressive episodes without Melancholia. It can also be used to improve the mood and feeling of well-being.

Also, it is important to note that the medication is not used to treat bipolar disorder or manic depression.

How does Parnate work?

Parnate works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances, called neurotransmitters, in the human brain.

How to use Parnate

Parnate should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer periods or in larger amount than recommended can cause health problems. Doctors may start with a low dose and proceed while increasing it during the treatment process.

It is always advisable to take the dosage at the same time every day for improved and quicker results. Unless recommended, you should not take more than 60 milligrams of the drug daily.

Get your blood pressure checked on regular basis. It might take at least four weeks to see the results. You must inform your doctor if you are going for an X-ray or a CT scan.

Parnate warnings and precautions

Do not use Parnate if you have already used MAO inhibitors like furazolidone, isocarboxazid, rasagiline, selegiline in the past two weeks.

Prior to taking Parnate, tell your doctor if you have certain medical problems like adrenal gland tumor, history of frequent headaches, mental or mood disorders, high blood pressure, epilepsy, heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, nervous system disease, kidney disease or liver problem.

While using Parnate, avoid physical exertion or driving as the medicine might cause dizziness. Check your blood sugar level on regular basis so that the treatment is successful. Avoid alcohol and do not indulge in activities that require you to be alert. Try and get up slowly if you are sitting or lying down to prevent fall.

If you are on this medication, then avoid foods that are high in tyramine like bananas, pepperoni, chicken liver, fish, beer, red wine, caffeine, chocolate, dried fish, mozzarella, yoghurt, figs etc.

Pregnant and lactating women should consult their doctors before taking this drug.

What do I do if I have missed a Parnate dose?

If you have missed your Parnate dose, do not double up the dose, if it is time for your next scheduled dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Parnate overdose?

If you have taken a Parnate overdose, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Parnate interactions

Tell your doctor about all prescription and non prescription drugs that you use. Also, do not start taking any new medication without telling your doctor.

Before taking Parnate, consult your doctor if you take certain drugs like antidepressants, appetite suppressants, drugs for attention deficit disorder, glaucoma drugs, high blood pressure controlling drugs, stimulants, MAO inhibitors, narcotic medications, bronchodilators and street drugs.

Do not take these medicines 2 week before, during or after the treatment with Parnate. Discuss with your doctor the time gap required between the medication and other drugs already being consumed by you.

Parnate side effects

Parnate side effects can be many including hives, vision problems, trouble sleeping, swelling of your ankles, pounding heartbeats, pale skin, bruising, unusual bleeding, fainting, muscle twitches, tremors, confusion, tight feeling in the chest and impulsive feeling. If you suffer from these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Some less serious side effects of Parnate are difficulty having orgasm, chills, blurred vision, loss of appetite, decreased urination, stomach pain, nausea, constipation and impotence.