Phenelzine Sulfate and Rodex

• Generic Name: phenelzine
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Nardil

Treatment of major depressive disorder.

Phenelzine is effective in patients with depression clinically characterized as atypical, nonendogenous, or neurotic; these patients often have mixed anxiety and depression and phobic or hypochondriacal features. Less conclusive evidence that drug is useful in severely depressed patients with endogenous features.

Because of potential for serious adverse effects and necessity of dietary restrictions, MAO inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine) generally are not used as initial therapy for major depressive disorder, but are reserved for carefully selected patients who can be closely supervised and who have depression refractory to other antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs) or in whom other therapies are contraindicated.

Phenelzine has been used with some success in the management of bulimia nervosa.

However, MAO inhibitors are potentially dangerous (e.g., risk of hypertensive crisis) in patients with eating disorders and should be used with caution in patients with chaotic binge eating and purging behaviors. MAO inhibitors currently are not recommended as first-line therapy in the management of bulimia nervosa.

• Generic Name: pyridoxine
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Vitamin B6, Vitelle Nestrex, Pyridoxal 5'-Phosphate

Vitamins are compounds that you must have for growth and health. They are needed in small amounts only and are usually available in the foods that you eat. Pyridoxine (vitamin B 6) is necessary for normal breakdown of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

Some conditions may increase your need for pyridoxine. These include:

• Alcoholism
• Burns
• Diarrhea
• Dialysis
• Heart disease
• Intestinal problems
• Liver disease
• Overactive thyroid
• Stress, long-term illness, or serious injury
• Surgical removal of stomach

In addition, infants receiving unfortified formulas such as evaporated milk may need additional pyridoxine.

Increased need for pyridoxine should be determined by your health care professional.

Lack of pyridoxine may lead to anemia (weak blood), nerve damage, seizures, skin problems, and sores in the mouth. Your doctor may treat these problems by prescribing pyridoxine for you.

Claims that pyridoxine is effective for treatment of acne and other skin problems, alcohol intoxication, asthma, hemorrhoids, kidney stones, mental problems, migraine headaches, morning sickness, and menstrual problems, or to stimulate appetite or milk production have not been proven.

Injectable pyridoxine is given by or under the supervision of a health care professional. Other forms of pyridoxine are available without a prescription.