Phenelzine and Constipation: What Users Say

• rav...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• September 16, 2024

Phenelzine for Depression "There are many, many antidepressants, but then there's Nardil—one of a kind. This medication obliterated my major depressive disorder (MDD), which was so severe that even getting out of bed was a monumental task. I had a lack of motivation, anhedonia, constant suicidal thoughts, and feelings of overwhelm and doom. Nardil put a stop to all (and also eradicated my social phobia). For me, 60-90 mg is necessary, and it takes a while to work—took about 8 weeks the first time. The side effects were manageable, mostly vertigo, increased appetite, and constipation. In over 20 years, I haven’t had a single negative experience with the dietary restrictions. I eat what I want without issue. I've tried coming off Nardil three times: twice in an attempt to be medication-free, and once to try Parnate. The first two times, I didn’t experience withdrawal symptoms, but my depression and anxiety returned. The third time, Parnate provided some relief, but wasn't nearly as effective as Nardil."

• Bub...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 30, 2016

Phenelzine for Depression "After trying every other kind of antidepressant over the past 9 or so years, Nardil was my first try at an MAOI. The dietary restrictions were less difficult to get used to and less strict than they appeared at first. I was on 30 mg of Nardil a day and didn't notice any effect, but after increasing to 45 mg/day, I felt the best I've felt in years, and it seemed that my depression might be cured at last. ...however, I also had the most side effects I've ever had from a medication: constipation, difficulty urinating, insomnia, and inability to reach an orgasm. Because of the bladder issues and insomnia, I've been forced to resume my search."

• Ast...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 19, 2020

Phenelzine "I wasn’t diagnosed yet with bipolar. This was my first visit to my psychiatrist to treat my bipolar depression, which I thought was major depressive disorder. We went up to 90 mg Nardil because it wasn’t taking effect. Holy crap, did it feel amazing, but I was in an extreme state of mania. I spent so much money. I was delusional. It was not good for me. Way too strong, this is serious stuff. The diet sucks. I gained a lot of weight and literally could not poop. I had to take laxatives regularly. My appetite was also affected big time. All I wanted was cookies, cakes, any sweets I could get. I came off it because I could not ejaculate for the life of me. That was the tipping point after a few months. I got off it. I do not recommend this for anyone with bipolar 1 especially, nor for bipolar 2."

• Efe...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• February 5, 2021

For Depression "My depression started 20 years ago once one of my relatives died. I tried all different medications available. Finally, I got phenelzine. It works much better than any other drug! Side effects slowly go away in 3 to 6 months. I started with 15 mg, and I increased my dosage 15 x week, this is the best way. Once I reached 60 a day, in 3 weeks the depression went away like magic. I take 30 mg in the morning and 30 mg at lunch, always with food. Working out, in the beginning, it was harder, now I have a well-shaped body, training 5 times a week. Food interactions are not a big issue, I only avoid aged cheese and spoiled foods. Alcohol, I drink everything but Chianti. It makes you sleepy under phenelzine, so I usually no more than a glass. Sex, at the beginning, side effects are strong for a male, but after 5 months, erections came back, the only issue is that it is harder to ejaculate. Constipation was hard to manage, now it is okay. Do your best to get it! Even if it is expensive, as it will save your life."