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Isocarboxazid: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Interactions
Key Points About Isocarboxazid
Isocarboxazid is a prescription medication primarily used to treat depression and certain other mental health conditions. It belongs to a class of antidepressants known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which work by influencing brain chemicals that help regulate mood. This medication is often prescribed when other treatments have not been effective. It is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely when taking Isocarboxazid to ensure safe and effective use.
Medication Names
US Brand Name: Marplan (Isocarboxazid)
The generic name refers to the active ingredient in the medication, while the brand name is the name given by the manufacturer. In this case, the generic name is Isocarboxazid, and the brand name is Marplan.
Pharmacologic Category
Isocarboxazid is classified as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI).
Other medications in this category include:
- Phenelzine (Nardil)
- Tranylcypromine (Parnate)
- Selegiline (Emsam)
Isocarboxazid Dosage Guidelines
Isocarboxazid is prescribed for a variety of mental health conditions. The dosage may differ depending on the specific condition being treated. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your dosage. If you need guidance, consider scheduling a telemedicine appointment with a qualified provider.
Dosage for Depression
Initial Dose: 10 mg twice daily.
Maintenance Dose: The dose may be increased by 10 mg every 2 to 4 days, up to a maximum of 60 mg per day, divided into two or more doses.
Duration: The length of treatment depends on your individual response and your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
Dosage for Anxiety Disorders
Initial Dose: 10 mg twice daily.
Maintenance Dose: The dose may be gradually increased, up to a maximum of 60 mg per day.
Duration: Treatment duration varies based on the severity of symptoms and how well you respond to the medication.
Dosage for Panic Disorder
Initial Dose: 10 mg twice daily.
Maintenance Dose: The dose may be increased by 10 mg every 2 to 4 days, up to a maximum of 60 mg per day.
Duration: The length of treatment is tailored to your individual response.
Dosage for Social Anxiety Disorder
Initial Dose: 10 mg twice daily.
Maintenance Dose: The dose may be gradually increased, up to a maximum of 60 mg per day.
Duration: Treatment duration is determined based on your specific needs.
Dosage for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Initial Dose: 10 mg twice daily.
Maintenance Dose: The dose may be gradually increased, up to a maximum of 60 mg per day.
Duration: The length of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and your response to the medication.
Dosage for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Initial Dose: 10 mg twice daily.
Maintenance Dose: The dose may be gradually increased, up to a maximum of 60 mg per day.
Duration: Treatment duration is individualized based on your response to the medication.
Dosage for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Initial Dose: 10 mg twice daily.
Maintenance Dose: The dose may be gradually increased, up to a maximum of 60 mg per day.
Duration: The length of treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms.
Dosage for Chronic Pain Syndrome
Initial Dose: 10 mg twice daily.
Maintenance Dose: The dose may be gradually increased, up to a maximum of 60 mg per day.
Duration: Treatment duration is tailored to your individual response.
Dosage for Eating Disorders
Initial Dose: 10 mg twice daily.
Maintenance Dose: The dose may be gradually increased, up to a maximum of 60 mg per day.
Duration: The length of treatment depends on your response and the severity of symptoms.
Dosage for Phobias
Initial Dose: 10 mg twice daily.
Maintenance Dose: The dose may be gradually increased, up to a maximum of 60 mg per day.
Duration: Treatment duration varies based on your individual needs.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Tablet: 10 mg
How to Take Isocarboxazid
Isocarboxazid should be taken orally, with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. To maintain consistent levels of the medication in your body, try to take it at the same time each day. Do not stop taking Isocarboxazid abruptly, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next dose. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
Contraindications for Isocarboxazid
A contraindication refers to a condition or circumstance in which a specific medication, such as **Isocarboxazid**, should not be used because it may cause harm. Before beginning treatment with this **MAOI antidepressant**, it is crucial to understand the contraindications, which include the following:
Severe liver disease: Since **Isocarboxazid** is processed by the liver, impaired liver function can lead to the medication accumulating in the body, increasing the risk of serious side effects.
Cardiovascular disease: Individuals with uncontrolled high blood pressure or heart disease are at greater risk of experiencing dangerous spikes in blood pressure or other heart-related complications when taking **Isocarboxazid**.
Pheochromocytoma: This rare tumor of the adrenal glands can cause elevated blood pressure. **Isocarboxazid** may exacerbate this condition by further increasing blood pressure levels.
History of stroke: Because **Isocarboxazid** can elevate blood pressure, it may heighten the risk of a recurrent stroke in individuals with a history of this condition.
Severe kidney disease: The kidneys play a vital role in removing medications from the body. When kidney function is impaired, **Isocarboxazid** can accumulate, increasing the likelihood of harmful side effects.
Use of other MAO inhibitors: Combining **Isocarboxazid** with other monoamine oxidase inhibitors can lead to dangerously high levels of serotonin and other brain chemicals, potentially resulting in serotonin syndrome, a life-threatening condition.
It is essential to provide your healthcare provider with a complete medical history before starting **Isocarboxazid**. If any of these contraindications apply to you, your provider may suggest alternative treatments. For personalized guidance, consider scheduling a telemedicine consultation with one of our providers to explore your options.
Drug-to-Drug Interactions with Isocarboxazid
Like other **MAOI antidepressants**, **Isocarboxazid** can interact with a variety of medications, potentially causing severe side effects or reducing the effectiveness of treatment. Key drug interactions to be aware of include the following:
SSRIs and SNRIs: Medications such as fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and venlafaxine (Effexor) can lead to serotonin syndrome when combined with **Isocarboxazid**.
Tricyclic antidepressants: Drugs like amitriptyline (Elavil) and nortriptyline (Pamelor) may increase the risk of high blood pressure or serotonin syndrome when taken alongside **Isocarboxazid**.
Stimulants: Medications such as amphetamine (Adderall) and methylphenidate (Ritalin) can cause dangerous spikes in blood pressure when used with **Isocarboxazid**.
Decongestants: Over-the-counter cold remedies containing pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) or phenylephrine can significantly raise blood pressure when combined with **Isocarboxazid**.
Opioid pain medications: Drugs like tramadol (Ultram) and meperidine (Demerol) can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when used in conjunction with **Isocarboxazid**.
Antihypertensives: Blood pressure-lowering medications, such as clonidine (Catapres) or guanfacine (Intuniv), may interact with **Isocarboxazid**, potentially causing dangerously low blood pressure.
To ensure your safety, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter products you are currently taking before starting **Isocarboxazid**. If you have concerns about potential interactions, schedule a telemedicine consultation with one of our providers to review your medication list and confirm compatibility with **Isocarboxazid therapy**.
Isocarboxazid and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Is it safe to use **Isocarboxazid** during pregnancy? The safety of **Isocarboxazid** for treating depression during pregnancy has not been fully established. Limited data is available regarding its effects on a developing baby. Due to potential risks, **Isocarboxazid** is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss your treatment options with your healthcare provider. You can also consult one of our telemedicine providers to explore safer alternatives to **Isocarboxazid** during pregnancy.
Isocarboxazid and Breastfeeding: Safety Considerations
Is it safe to take **Isocarboxazid** while breastfeeding? There is limited information on whether **Isocarboxazid** passes into breast milk or its potential effects on a nursing infant. Due to the lack of comprehensive data, healthcare providers generally advise against using **Isocarboxazid** while breastfeeding. If you are currently breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, consult your healthcare provider to discuss alternative antidepressant medications or treatments. Our telemedicine providers are available to help you develop a safe and effective treatment plan tailored to your needs while breastfeeding.
Estimated Cost of Isocarboxazid (Marplan)
The cost of a 30-day supply of Isocarboxazid (Marplan), a commonly prescribed monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant, can vary depending on the pharmacy and location. Without insurance, prices typically range from $200 to $300 when using a GoodRx coupon. Additional discounts or coupons may be available to help further reduce the cost, so it’s worth exploring these options.
Possible Alternatives to Isocarboxazid
If Isocarboxazid is not the right fit for you, there are alternative treatments and lifestyle adjustments that may help manage the conditions it is commonly prescribed for. It’s important to consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss these alternatives in detail.
Alternatives for Depression
For managing depression, options include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft), and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like venlafaxine (Effexor). Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is another effective approach. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, and practicing mindfulness techniques can provide significant benefits.
Alternatives for Anxiety Disorders
For anxiety disorders, SSRIs like escitalopram (Lexapro) or benzodiazepines such as lorazepam (Ativan) are commonly prescribed. Therapy, particularly CBT, and relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation can also be highly effective in managing symptoms.
Alternatives for Panic Disorder
For panic disorder, treatment options may include SSRIs, SNRIs, or benzodiazepines. CBT and exposure therapy are widely recognized as effective strategies for reducing the frequency and intensity of panic attacks.
Alternatives for Social Anxiety Disorder
For social anxiety disorder, SSRIs such as paroxetine (Paxil) or SNRIs like venlafaxine (Effexor) are often recommended. Therapy, including CBT, and social skills training can also help individuals build confidence and manage symptoms more effectively.
Alternatives for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
For OCD, SSRIs like fluvoxamine (Luvox) or clomipramine (Anafranil) are frequently prescribed. CBT, particularly a specialized form called exposure and response prevention (ERP), is considered one of the most effective treatments for OCD.
Alternatives for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
For PTSD, SSRIs such as sertraline (Zoloft) or paroxetine (Paxil) are commonly used. Trauma-focused therapies, including CBT and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), have shown significant benefits in helping individuals process and recover from traumatic experiences.
Alternatives for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
For SAD, light therapy is a widely recommended treatment. SSRIs and lifestyle changes, such as increasing exposure to natural sunlight and maintaining a consistent daily routine, can also help alleviate symptoms.
Alternatives for Chronic Pain Syndrome
For chronic pain syndrome, tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline or SNRIs such as duloxetine (Cymbalta) are often prescribed. Non-medication approaches, including physical therapy, acupuncture, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, may also provide relief and improve quality of life.
Alternatives for Eating Disorders
For eating disorders, SSRIs like fluoxetine (Prozac) are sometimes prescribed alongside therapy options such as CBT or family-based treatment (FBT). These approaches aim to address both the psychological and behavioral aspects of the condition.
Alternatives for Phobias
For phobias, CBT—particularly exposure therapy—is considered the most effective treatment. In some cases, medications like SSRIs or benzodiazepines may be used to help manage acute symptoms while undergoing therapy.
Recent Updates on Isocarboxazid Research
Recent studies on Isocarboxazid, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), underscore its effectiveness in treating cases of treatment-resistant depression and anxiety disorders. Research suggests that Isocarboxazid may be particularly beneficial for individuals with atypical depression who have not responded to other antidepressants. However, due to its potential for serious side effects and drug interactions, it is generally reserved for patients who have exhausted other treatment options.
Ongoing research is exploring the long-term safety of Isocarboxazid, including its use in combination with newer medications. Studies are also investigating whether lower doses could minimize side effects while maintaining its therapeutic benefits. As new findings become available, staying informed and discussing these updates with your healthcare provider is crucial. If you’re interested in learning more about how recent research might impact your treatment plan, consider scheduling a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers.
