Tranylcypromine

Tranylcypromine is an older antidepressant called an MAOI used for treatment-resistant major depression when other drugs fail to bring relief. Doctors usually try safer modern antidepressants first, such as SSRIs or SNRIs, before choosing this medication because they need monitoring. It works by blocking monoamine oxidase, which raises serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine levels in the brain to improve mood symptoms.

How it works and when it's used

Most patients start at a low dose and increase slowly while a clinician checks blood pressure and side effects regularly. Do not stop tranylcypromine suddenly because withdrawal or fast relapse of symptoms can occur speak with your prescriber first. A serious risk is hypertensive crisis triggered by high-tyramine foods like aged cheese, cured meats, and some fermented products especially. Your provider will give a clear food and drink list to follow and explain timing when eating outside the home.

Safety, diet, and interactions

Tranylcypromine interacts with many medications including SSRIs, SNRIs, certain pain meds, some decongestants, and several herbal supplements so tell providers. Mixing drugs can cause serotonin syndrome or dangerous blood pressure reactions that need emergency care and hospitalization is sometimes required. Common side effects include insomnia, dry mouth, dizziness, tremor, and changes in appetite or weight which patients should report promptly. If you get a severe headache, chest pain, stiff muscles, fever, or rapid heartbeat, seek immediate medical help without delay. Doctors plan washout periods when switching from other antidepressants; with fluoxetine this period may be longer due to its half-life. Blood pressure checks are routine at the start and after any dose change, especially during the first few weeks period.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding require discussion; alternative treatments might be safer for those situations so your doctor will review risks carefully. People with uncontrolled hypertension, certain heart problems, or advanced liver disease may need other options and close follow-up if used. Keep an updated medication list and show it to any new provider or pharmacist before starting new prescriptions or supplements. Many patients keep a simple food diary at first to avoid accidental tyramine exposure and track reactions and share it.

Your pharmacist can check for interactions when you fill prescriptions and suggest safer over-the-counter options so ask questions every visit. Mental health follow-up matters; psychotherapy, peer support, and lifestyle changes often pair well with medication to boost long-term recovery outcomes. Never combine tranylcypromine with recreational drugs or alcohol without medical advice due to unpredictable effects that can be life-threatening quickly. If side effects are bothersome, talk to your prescriber about dose adjustments or alternative therapies with them to find relief.

Emergency signs like sudden severe headache or vomiting require immediate transport to the nearest emergency department and mention it quickly. Education matters: know banned foods, wait times between antidepressants, and whom to call after hours and prevent serious complications too. Many people who start tranylcypromine improve significantly, but treatment needs careful teamwork with clinicians and caregivers and protect long-term health. Talk openly about risks and benefits so you get the best care and avoid preventable problems with your healthcare team.