NZ Formulary

Moclobemide

moe-kloe-be-mide

What does it do?

Moclobemide is used to treat depression, and sometimes other conditions.

Before you start

  • Tell your doctor if you have bipolar disorder.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take moclobemide regularly as directed with food and a glass of water.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with moclobemide including:

  • cold and flu medicines containing phenylephrine (e.g. Sudafed PE®)
  • omeprazole (e.g. Losec®)
  • some migraine medicines, such as sumatriptan (e.g. Sumagran Active®)

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products (e.g. St John's wort) or recreational drugs (e.g. ecstasy).

Important information continues on next page.

What side effects might you notice?

Side EffectsRecommended action

Suicidal thoughts

Muscle twitching or shaking you can’t control, confusion, heavy sweating, fever

Tell your doctor immediately

Anxiety, restlessness

Tell your doctor

Dizziness, trouble sleeping

Stomach upset

Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

  • Some people who take moclobemide may be very sensitive to tyramine which is present in some foods and alcohol (e.g. cheese, meat or yeast extracts (e.g. Marmite®, Vegemite®, Oxo®), pickled fish, broad bean pods, sauerkraut, salami and protein drinks). People taking high doses of moclobemide may need to avoid large amounts of these. Discuss with your health professional.
  • It may take a few weeks for moclobemide to start working.
  • Do not stop taking moclobemide without talking to your doctor first.