Moclobemide

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Moclobemide is the first of a new class of antidepressant known as reversible inhibitors of monoamine oxidase (RIMA). Primarily used to treat major depression and social anxiety disorder it blocks the decomposition of norepinephrine, serotonin and, to a lesser extent, dopamine this helps to elevate mood and restore interest in everyday activities. Unlike traditional MAOIs, such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine moclobemide is unlikly to interact with foods that contain tyramine e.g. matured cheeses and yeast extracts. Nevertheless, If you have been prescribed moclobemide you should avoid consuming large amounts of tyramine-rich food such as (mature cheese, yeast extracts and fermented soya bean products, chianti wine) in order to avoid a rise in blood pressure.

The risk of drug interactions is also claimed to be less but individuals prescribed moclobemide still need to avoid sympathomimetics such as ephedrine and pseudoephedrine. In addition, moclobemide should not be given with another antidepressant.

Like all antidepressants it will take at least one to two weeks before it begins to work and lift depression. Moclobemide has no sedative properties. therefore, agitated patients, or those with suicidal thoughts should receive sedative/anxiolytic treatment with benzodiazepines or neuroleptics during the initial stages of treatment.

Quick Guide

• Antidepressant with danger of overdose – HIGH.
• Dependency is said to be – MEDIUM.
• Prescription only drug – YES.
• Available as generic – NO. (generic drugs, short: generics) is a drug which is produced and distributed without patent protection.
• Alcohol Avoidance – YES.
• Avoid excessive amounts of alcohol.

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted adverse effects.

Common: Dizziness, Headaches, Nausea and Dry Mouth, Heartburn, Sleep Disturbances.
Rare: Agitation, Blurred Vision, Confusion, Restlessness, Diarrhoea.

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using moclobemide It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

Moclobemide is well tolerated, although nausea and dizziness may be experienced early in treatment. These should soon wear off. Problems would not be expected with prolonged use.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

These activities should be avoided until you find out how this medication affects you, it is possible to experience dizziness and confusion. It would also be wise to avoid excessive amounts of alcohol.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

The safety of this drug in pregnancy has not been established. If you breast feed there would be a small amount of the drug passing into the breast. Discuss both of these issues with your doctor.

Surgery Or Dental Procedure

Before undergoing any kind of surgery first consult with your doctor/dentist.

Tell Your Doctor Or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative preparations.

Over 60′s & Children

There would be no special problems affecting the use of this drug in the over 60′s. Moclobemide would not be recommended for infants and children.

Overdose

Unintentional extra dose is unlikely to cause problems. However, if a large overdoses has been taken inform your doctor immediately.

Failing this go to your nearest accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you. This will help the hospital staff identify what has been taken and work towards given the right kind of help without delay.

Other Medication Reactions

Other antidepressants are not normally taken at the same time as moclobemide. There should be at least one free week after a tricyclic or related antidepressant or an SSRI or related antidepressant has been stopped. before starting treatment with moclobemide. Ephedrine, Pseudoephedrine and Phenylpropanolamine are contained in some cold remedies and should not be taken whilst on moclobemide. Drugs like Codiene, Morphine, Pethidine and Tentanyl have enhanced effects if taken with moclobemide.

Missed A Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

It is important that you do not stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor as it can lead to a worsening of the condition.

Effect Of Medication

The effects of this drug could be felt within 1 to 2 hours with a lasting duration of up to 24 hours.

Storage and Safety

• Keep moclobemide in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C.
• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• Never take moclobemide if it has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not discard old or unwanted drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines/drugs to your pharmacist. who will dispose of them safely.

If moclobemide has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or others feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.

Natural Remedy

Depression can be a natural response to a period of crisis/emotional upset. Sleeping habits often become upset during this period the sufferer getting either to little or to much. If you find yourself in this corner then the Aromatherapist would recommend, Citrus Essences, Clary Sage, Lavender, Ylang Ylang, Sandal Wood. Consistent depression, Chronic depression needs professional help. Arrange to see your GP he may be able to put you in touch with a counsellor or a psychotherapist. Mild depression can be helped by aromatherapy.