Parnate

Why should Parnate not be prescribed?

Do not take Parnate if you are in danger of a stroke, if you have heart or liver disease, high blood pressure, or a history of headaches, if you have a type of tumor known as pheochromocytoma, or if you will be undergoing elective surgery requiring general anesthesia.

Special warnings about Parnate

In clinical studies, antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children and adolescents with depression and other psychiatric disorders. Anyone considering the use of Parnate or any other antidepressant in a child or adolescent must balance this risk with the clinical need. Parnate is not approved for use in children.

Additionally, the progression of major depression is associated with a worsening of symptoms and/or the emergence of suicidal thinking or behavior in both adults and children, whether or not they are taking antidepressants. Individuals being treated with Parnate and their caregivers should watch for any change in symptoms or any new symptoms that appear suddenly--especially agitation, anxiety, hostility, panic, restlessness, extreme hyperactivity, and suicidal thinking or behavior--and report them to the doctor immediately. Be especially observant at the beginning of treatment or whenever there is a change in dose.

The most dangerous reaction to Parnate is a surge in blood pressure, which has sometimes been fatal. For this reason, report promptly to your doctor any of the following symptoms: constriction or pain in the throat or chest, dizziness, fever, headache, irregular heartbeat, light sensitivity, nausea, neck stiffness or soreness, palpitations, pupil dilation, sweating, or vomiting.

A number of people who take Parnate experience low blood pressure, faintness, or drowsiness, so exercise great care when performing potentially hazardous tasks, such as driving a car or operating machinery.

Some people become physically dependent on Parnate and experience withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped, including restlessness, anxiety, depression, confusion, hallucinations, headache, weakness, and diarrhea.