Phenelzine
Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant used primarily to treat major depressive disorder, particularly when other treatments have been ineffective. It works by preventing the breakdown of neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain.
Phenelzine is an MAOI antidepressant used for treatment-resistant depression that requires strict dietary and medication restrictions.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N06AF03
- RxNorm
- 8123
- Generic
- Phenelzine
- Class
- atc-n06
- Brands
- Nardil
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- 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, especially atypical depression that has not responded to other antidepressant classes. May also be used for anxiety disorders in some cases.
As a non-selective, irreversible monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), it blocks the enzyme monoamine oxidase from breaking down neurotransmitters (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine), increasing their availability in the brain.
Requires strict avoidance of tyramine-rich foods (aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented foods) to prevent dangerous hypertensive crisis. Contraindicated with SSRIs, SNRIs, and other MAOIs due to serotonin syndrome risk. Requires washout periods when switching between antidepressants. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential.
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 August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy