What do you know about Isocarboxazid ?

Isocarboxazid dosage is a medication classified as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of antidepressant. It works by inhibiting the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which breaks down neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain. By inhibiting this enzyme, isocarboxazid increases the levels of these neurotransmitters, which can help alleviate symptoms of depression.

Here are some key points about isocarboxazid:

Indications:

• Primarily used for treating major depressive disorder (MDD), especially in cases where other antidepressants (like SSRIs, SNRIs, or tricyclic antidepressants) have not been effective.
• Sometimes prescribed for atypical depression or depression with features like hypersomnia, overeating, and emotional sensitivity.

Mechanism of Action:

• As an MAOI, Isocarboxazid dosage prevents the breakdown of monoamine neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine), thereby increasing their availability in the brain. This helps improve mood and reduce depressive symptoms.

Brand Name:

• Isocarboxazid dosage is sold under the brand name Marplan in various regions.

Side Effects:

• Common side effects: dizziness, headache, dry mouth, insomnia, weight gain, constipation.
• Serious side effects: hypertensive crisis (a sudden and dangerous increase in blood pressure) can occur if the patient consumes foods high in tyramine (like aged cheeses, certain wines, and cured meats). This is because MAOIs like isocarboxazid prevent the breakdown of tyramine.
• Other serious side effects: orthostatic hypotension (sudden drop in blood pressure when standing), serotonin syndrome (especially if taken with other serotonin-increasing drugs), and liver problems.

Dietary Restrictions:

• People taking isocarboxazid need to follow a strict low-tyramine diet to avoid hypertensive crises.
• Foods to avoid: aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented products, certain alcoholic beverages (e.g., red wine, beer), soy products, and other foods high in tyramine.

Drug Interactions:

• Interactions with other medications: Isocarboxazid dosage can have dangerous interactions with many drugs, including SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, certain pain medications (especially meperidine), stimulants, decongestants, and other drugs that increase serotonin levels or have sympathomimetic properties.

Isocarboxazid is effective for certain patients, especially those with treatment-resistant depression, but it requires careful monitoring and strict adherence to dietary and medication guidelines.