phenelzine

Phenelzine is a non-selective and irreversible monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) of the hydrazine family. It is primarily used as an antidepressant and anxiolytic to treat major depressive disorder—especially atypical depression—and is also effective in treatment-resistant depression. Phenelzine works by inhibiting both MAO-A and MAO-B enzymes, leading to increased levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain[1][2][3][4][8]. It has also been reported to inhibit other enzymes including tyrosine aminotransferase and aromatic amino acid decarboxylase[2]. Developed by Parke Davis and FDA approved in 1961, it remains one of the few non-selective irreversible MAOIs still widely used clinically[2][8].

Brand names

Nardil

Other names

FenelzinaPhenelzinPhénelzinePhenelzinum