Tranylcypromine
Parnate (tranylcypromine) is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) used to treat major depressive disorder in adults who haven't responded to other antidepressants. It works by preventing the breakdown of certain brain chemicals involved in mood regulation.
Parnate is an MAOI antidepressant reserved for treatment-resistant depression, requiring strict dietary and medication restrictions due to risk of serious side effects.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203832
- Generic
- Parnate
- 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.
Primarily prescribed for major depressive disorder when other antidepressant medications (such as SSRIs or SNRIs) have been ineffective or poorly tolerated. It is typically considered a later-line treatment option.
As a non-selective and irreversible monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), it blocks the activity of MAO-A and MAO-B enzymes in the brain, which normally break down neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, thereby increasing their availability.
Requires strict avoidance of tyramine-rich foods (aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented foods) to prevent hypertensive crisis. Multiple drug interactions exist including with SSRIs, SNRIs, and other MAOIs—always maintain proper washout periods. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential throughout treatment.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
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