Parnate (Tranylcypromine)

Do’s

• Take Parnate exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually twice daily with or without food.
• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully regarding dosage. Don't adjust your dose on your own.
• Take Parnate consistently at the same time(s) each day for best results.
• Be patient, as it may take several weeks to experience the full benefits.
• Tell your healthcare provider if your condition improves and if you can potentially lower the dose.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition worsens or persists.

Don'ts

• Don't skip doses or stop taking Parnate without talking to your healthcare provider first. Stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms.
• Don't take more Parnate than prescribed.
• Don't take other medications or supplements without consulting your healthcare provider, as Parnate can interact with many substances.

Common side effects:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Hallucinations
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Abnormal involuntary movements
• Blurred vision
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Difficulty in speaking
• Double vision
• Feeling, seeing, or hearing things that are not there
• Feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
• Stuffy nose
• Redness, burning, or itching at the application site of the patch
• Dry mouth
• Upset stomach
• Extreme tiredness
• Drowsiness

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Feeling like you might pass out
• Muscle movements you cannot control
• Loss of balance or coordination
• Bloody or tarry stools
• Coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Severe headache
• Seizure
• Weakness on one side of the body
• Vision changes (such as decreased/blurred vision)
• Chest/jaw/left arm pain
• Trouble breathing
• Signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), difficulty breathing

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Parnate,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Disclose any allergies to tranylcypromine or other medication ingredients.

Inform your healthcare provider about any history of the following:

• Pheochromocytoma (adrenal gland tumor)
• Cerebrovascular disease (stroke)
• High blood pressure
• Heart problems (coronary artery disease, chest pain, heart attack, heart failure)
• Severe/frequent headaches
• Mental/mood disorders (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder)
• Liver problems
• Kidney disease
• Nervous system diseases (Parkinson's, seizures)
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
• Glaucoma (especially angle-closure type) or family history

Parnate may cause dizziness or drowsiness, which can be worsened by alcohol or marijuana. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you can do so safely.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take before surgery or procedures using contrast dye. You may need to stop taking Parnate beforehand.

Parnate may mask chest pain in people with heart disease. Avoid strenuous exercise while taking this medication.

Parnate may affect blood sugar levels. Regularly monitor blood sugar and report changes to your healthcare provider.

While Parnate is used to treat depression, a small number of people, especially those under 25, may experience worsening depression or suicidal thoughts. Be alert to these changes and discuss them with your healthcare provider immediately.

Parnate can rarely cause a life-threatening high blood pressure attack. Regularly monitor blood pressure and avoid foods/drinks high in tyramine (see below).

Parnate should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. Parnate passes into breast milk. Consult with your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

Parnate has many potential interactions with other medications, herbal products, and food. This can increase the risk of serious side effects, including high blood pressure. Track all medications you take (prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products). Share this list with your healthcare provider. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medications without your healthcare provider's approval.

Parnate requires a special diet to limit tyramine intake, which can cause high blood pressure. Avoid these foods for at least 2 weeks after stopping Parnate:

• Aged cheeses
• Aged/processed meats and fish
• Certain fruits and vegetables (like fava beans, overripe fruits)
• Some fermented products (like sauerkraut, kimchi)
• Soy products (like tofu, miso)
• Alcoholic beverages (especially red wine)

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience symptoms of high blood pressure, worsening depression, or other concerning side effects.

Your healthcare provider can provide more information on dietary restrictions and safe medication use with Parnate.