Phenelzine
Nardil (phenelzine) is a prescription antidepressant belonging to the class of medications called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). It is primarily used to treat depression, particularly atypical depression, in adults who have not responded to other antidepressant treatments. By inhibiting the enzyme monoamine oxidase, Nardil increases levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate mood.
Nardil is an MAOI antidepressant used for depression, particularly atypical depression, when other treatments have not been effective.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203799
- Generic
- Nardil
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Nardil is FDA-approved for the treatment of depression, especially the atypical subtype characterized by symptoms such as mood reactivity (responding positively to positive events), hypersomnia, appetite increase, leaden paralysis, and rejection sensitivity. It may be considered when other antidepressants have not provided adequate symptom relief.
Nardil contains phenelzine, a non-selective and irreversible inhibitor of monoamine oxidase. It works by blocking the action of the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO), which normally breaks down neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. This inhibition increases the availability of these mood-regulating neurotransmitters in the brain.
Nardil carries a BLACK BOX WARNING due to increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. Patients must follow strict dietary restrictions to avoid tyramine-rich foods (aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented products, etc.) which can cause dangerously high blood pressure. Many drug interactions exist, particularly with other antidepressants, stimulants, and certain pain medications. Patients should not discontinue this medication abruptly and should allow appropriate washout periods when switching to or from other antidepressants.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy