Isocarboxazid

Do not use in pregnancy, especially during the first and last trimesters, unless there are compelling reasons. There is no evidence as to drug safety in human pregnancy, nor is there evidence from animal work that it is free from hazard. In addition, the effect of psychotropic drugs on the fine brain structure of the foetus is unknown.

Since there is no information on the secretion of the drug into breast milk, Isocarboxazid is contra-indicated during lactation.

Like all medicaments of this type, isocarboxazid may modify patients' reactions (driving ability, operation of machinery etc.) to a varying extent, depending on dosage and individual susceptibility.

In general, isocarboxazid is well tolerated by the majority of patients. Side-effects, if they occur, are those common to the group of monoamine oxidase inhibitors.

The most frequently reported have been orthostatic hypotension, associated in some patients with disturbances in cardiac rhythm, peripheral oedema, complaints of dizziness, dryness of the mouth, nausea and vomiting, constipation, blurred vision, insomnia, drowsiness, weakness and fatigue. These side-effects can usually be controlled by dosage reduction.

There have been infrequent reports of mild headaches, sweating, paraesthesiae, peripheral neuritis, hyperreflexia, agitation, overactivity, muscle tremor, confusion and other behavioural changes, difficulty in micturition, impairment of erection and ejaculation, and skin rashes. Although rare, blood dyscrasias (purpura, granulocytopenia) have been reported. Response to isocarboxazid may be accompanied by increased appetite and weight gain.

Cases of suicidal ideation and suicidal behaviours have been reported during isocarboxazid therapy or early after treatment discontinuation.