Drug Information
Phenelzine is a member of a group of drugs called monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors (also called MAOIs). Phenelzine is sometimes used to treat people with depression who do not respond to other antidepressant drug therapy.
Common brand names:
Nardil
Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, & Foods
Types of interactions:
Beneficial
Adverse
Check
Replenish Depleted Nutrients
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Vitamin B6
Phenelzine has a chemical structure similar to other drugs (isoniazid and hydralazine) that can cause vitamin B6 deficiency. One case of phenelzine-induced vitamin B6 deficiency has been reported. Little is known about this interaction. People taking phenelzine should ask their doctor about monitoring vitamin B6 levels and considering supplementation.
Potential Negative Interaction
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Scotch broom contains high levels of tyramine. Combining phenelzine and Scotch broom may cause MAOI-type reactions (diarrhoea, flushing, sweating, pounding chest, dangerous changes in blood pressure, and other symptoms). It is important for people taking phenelzine to avoid Scotch broom. People with questions about phenelzine and Scotch broom should ask their doctor.
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Two cases were reported involving men treated with phenelzine who experienced restlessness, agitation, tremor, and insomnia after drinking large quantities of cola beverages containing aspartame. Until more is known, people taking phenelzine should use aspartame-containing foods with caution.
The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
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Ephedra contains the chemical ephedrine, which may interact with phenelzine, causing potentially dangerous changes to blood pressure. People should read product labels for ephedra/ephedrine content. Ephedra and ephedrine-containing products should be avoided during phenelzine therapy. People with questions about phenelzine and ephedra/ephedrine should ask their doctor or pharmacist.
The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
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St. John’s Wort
Although St. John’s wort contains chemicals that bind MAO in test tubes, it is believed that the action of St. John’s wort is not due to MAOI activity. However, because St. John’s wort may have serotonin reuptake inhibiting action (similar to the action of drugs such as Prozac®, it is best to avoid concomitant use of St. John’s wort with MAOI drugs.
The interaction is supported by preliminary, weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Explanation Required
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Phenelzine can alter metabolism of a chemical called tyramine that is present in certain foods, leading to diarrhea, flushing, sweating, pounding chest, dangerous changes in blood pressure, and other symptoms. It is important for people taking phenelzine to avoid tyramine-containing foods. People with questions about phenelzine and tyramine-containing foods should ask their doctor or pharmacist.
The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.
