The Basics
What is Phenelzine?
Monoamine oxidase inhibitor used to treat certain types of depression.
Brand names for Phenelzine
Nardil
How Phenelzine is classified
Antidepressive Agents, Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors
Phenelzine During Pregnancy
Phenelzine pregnancy category
Category N/ANote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Phenelzine while pregnant
N/A
Taking Phenelzine While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Phenelzine?
Because of the lack of data on use during breastfeeding, other antidepressants are preferred during breastfeeding.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Because of the lack of data on use during breastfeeding, other antidepressants are preferred during breastfeeding.
Possible effects of Phenelzine on milk supply
Phenelzine can elevate serum prolactin in some patients[1] and has caused galactorrhea in nonpregnant, nonnursing patients.[2] The clinical relevance of these findings in nursing mothers is not known. The prolactin level in a mother with established lactation may not affect her ability to breastfeed.
Possible alternatives to Phenelzine
Nortriptyline, Paroxetine, Sertraline.
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/Coker F, Taylor D. Antidepressant-induced hyperprolactinaemia: incidence, mechanisms and management. CNS Drugs. 2010;24:563-74. PMID: 20527996
1. Segal M, Heys RF. Inappropriate lactation. Br Med J. 1969;4:236. PMID: 5388733
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
