Drowsiness, constipation, and weakness are some of the more common side effects of phenelzine. Other side effects include difficulty urinating, jitteriness, and blurred vision, although these are rare. In most cases, phenelzine side effects are minor and easily treated. Serious problems that may require immediate medical attention include dangerously high blood pressure, hepatitis, or an allergic reaction.
An Introduction to Side Effects of Phenelzine
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with
phenelzine sulfate (
Nardil®). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the drug quite well. If side effects do occur, in many cases, they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with phenelzine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of phenelzine side effects with you.)
Common Side Effects of Phenelzine
Phenelzine has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials, in which a group of people taking the drug have side effects documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
In these studies, some of the common side effects of phenelzine include:
Symptoms of withdrawal have been reported in people who have stopped taking the drug suddenly. These side effects of phenelzine withdrawal include nausea, vomiting, and a general ill feeling
(see Nardil Withdrawal).