Moclobemide is a MAO inhibitor that is used in treating certain types of depression. The drug works by blocking the action of MAO or monoamine oxidase, a chemical substance, in the nervous system.
The drug is a very effective treatment for depression, but if taken incorrectly, it may cause unwanted side effects.
When taking moclobemide:
It is very crucial to know what beverages and medicines to avoid.
Your doctor may give you a list to help you remember which products must not be used or taken.
This drug is only available with a doctor’s prescription.
If you have any unusual reaction to any medicine, be sure to tell your doctor about it. Additionally, disclose other types of allergies - foods, preservatives, animals, or dyes, if there are any. Read the package ingredients carefully and make sure you are not allergic to any of its ingredients.
Pediatric.
No studies on moclobemide are done to determine any specific information about its use in children.
Geriatric.
The elderly are particularly sensitive to moclobemide’s effects, thus increasing the risk for side effects. Older adults are more likely to experience lightheadedness or dizziness compared to younger adults.
Drug Interactions.
Some drugs have adverse effects when used together. Make sure to inform your doctor about other drugs you are taking, so that alterations and precautions will be made if necessary. Before using moclobemide, talk to your doctor about possible interactions if you are taking other medications.
It is also important to inform your doctor if you are smoking tobacco or drinking alcohol since these may interact with the drug’s effectiveness.
Inform your doctor about any drug you are using, prescription or nonprescription, especially the following drugs:
Your doctor will advise you about which medicines and supplements to avoid. Do not take any other drug without your doctor’s consent.
Other Medical Problems.
The use of this medicine may be affected particularly if you have certain medical conditions. For instance, using moclobemide will make hypertension worse, while having a liver disease may increase the effects of the medicine due to the slower removal of the drug from your system.
3 Proper Usage
To use Moclobemide properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor. Your doctor may tell you to make certain changes in your diet, if necessary. Limit your alcohol intake while taking this drug, as it tends to interact with alcohol.
Typically, you begin to feel better after several weeks of taking this medicine. Regular checkups are necessary to keep your doctor on track about your progress and to make sure the drug is working properly and not giving you unwanted side effects.
Do not take more or less than the doctor prescribed. This drug should be taken after a meal, but if your doctor tells you otherwise, take it exactly as your doctor directed.
Dosing.
For treatment of depression in adults, the drug is initially given at 150 mg twice a day. The dose may be adjusted by your doctor as necessary, but the maximum dose does not usually exceed 600 mg per day.
Missed dose.
Take the missed dose as soon as possible. In case it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and follow your regular dosing schedule. Never take double doses.
Storage.
Keep the medicine in an airtight container at normal room temperature. Keep it away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Do not let it freeze. Keep the medicine out of children’s reach. Throw away any outdated medicine or medicines that are not in use.
4 Precautions to Take
Before using Moclobemide, there are some precautions you must take. Taking moclobemide with certain medicines or drinks can be very dangerous, as doing such may cause a hypertensive crisis or sudden high blood pressure.
To prevent this from happening, do the following rules of caution:
Do not take medications of any kind (including prescription and nonprescription drugs, and vitamins and herbal supplements) without your doctor’s approval.
Limit alcohol intake. Do not drink alcoholic drinks, if possible.
If you experience severe, throbbing headache; fast or racing heartbeat, stiff neck, or pounding, irregular heartbeat, check with your doctor immediately. Do not stop taking moclobemide without your doctor’s advice.
Gradual reduction of dosage before completely stopping intake of this medicine is usually necessary. You may experience lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting, especially when getting up from a lying position suddenly. You may prevent this by standing up slowly when getting up. However, if the problem persists or gets worse, consult your doctor.
People taking this drug may experience blurred vision or drowsiness. Make sure you are familiar on how you react to this medicine before doing activities that can be dangerous if you cannot see well or are drowsy.
Inform your dentist or doctor in charge that you are using this medicine prior to any kind of dental treatment, surgery, or emergency treatment. This is to avoid serious side effects that may take place when this drug interacts with other medications that are used during these procedures.
Continue exercising caution with your drinks, foods, and other medications at least 2 weeks after stopping intake of this medicine.
Some of the side effects may not need medical attention as these may go away as the body adjusts to the drug. Some patients may experience another side effect not listed above. You may report side effects of this drug to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088.
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