Escitalopram Oxalate and Phenelzine Sulfate must not be used together. This combination is classified as CONTRAINDICATED.
The co-administration of escitalopram (an SSRI) and phenelzine (an MAOI) is absolutely contraindicated due to a significantly increased risk of Serotonin Syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by mental status changes, autonomic instability, and neuromuscular abnormalities. This combination can lead to severe and fatal reactions.
Mechanism: Escitalopram inhibits the reuptake of serotonin, increasing its concentration in the synaptic cleft. Phenelzine inhibits monoamine oxidase enzymes, preventing the breakdown of serotonin. The combined effect leads to excessive serotonergic activity in the central nervous system.
Escitalopram Oxalate vs. Phenelzine Sulfate
Compare Escitalopram Oxalate and Phenelzine Sulfate: mechanism of action, indications, side effects, cost, and which may be right for you.
Drug A
Escitalopram Oxalate
Escitalopram
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
RxDrug B
Phenelzine Sulfate
phenelzine sulfate
MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors)
RxQuick Comparison
| Category | Escitalopram Oxalate | Phenelzine Sulfate |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) | MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) |
| Rx Status | Rx | Rx |
| Generic Available | No | Yes |
| Typical Cost | $4–$25/month | $30-$80/month |
Escitalopram Oxalate Overview
Escitalopram is a type of antidepressant medication called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder by helping to restore the balance of a natural substance called serotonin in the brain.
Full Escitalopram Oxalate guide →Phenelzine Sulfate Overview
PHENELZINE SULFATE (brand name: phenelzine sulfate) is a MAOIs. INDICATIONS AND USAGE Phenelzine sulfate has been found to be effective in depressed patients clinically characterized as "atypical," "nonendogenous," or "neurotic." These patients often have mixed anxiety and depression and phobic or hypochondriacal features. There is less conclusive evidence of…
Full Phenelzine Sulfate guide →How Each Drug Works
Escitalopram Oxalate
The mechanism of antidepressant action of escitalopram, the S-enantiomer of racemic citalopram, is presumed to be linked to potentiation of serotonergic activity in the central nervous system (CNS) resulting from its inhibition of CNS neuronal reuptake of serotonin (5-HT).
Approved Uses (Indications)
Escitalopram Oxalate
Escitalopram tablets are indicated for the treatment of: major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older. generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) inadults. Additional pediatric use information is approved for AbbVie Inc.’s LEXAPRO (escitalopram) tablets. However, due to AbbVie Inc.’s marketing exclusivity rights, this drug product is not labeled with that information. Escitalopram oxalate is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) indicated for the: treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and pediatric patient…
Phenelzine Sulfate
INDICATIONS AND USAGE Phenelzine sulfate has been found to be effective in depressed patients clinically characterized as "atypical," "nonendogenous," or "neurotic." These patients often have mixed anxiety and depression and phobic or hypochondriacal features. There is less conclusive evidence of its usefulness with severely depressed patients with endogenous features. Phenelzine sulfate should rarely be the first antidepressant drug used. Rather, it is more suitable for use with patients who have failed to respond to the drugs more commonly used for these conditions.
Side Effects
Escitalopram Oxalate
Phenelzine Sulfate
Cost Comparison
Escitalopram Oxalate
$4–$25/month
As a widely available generic, escitalopram is very affordable. Patients can often find it for under $10 a month using discount cards like GoodRx or through pharmacy savings programs.
Phenelzine Sulfate
$30-$80/month
Generic available
Generic phenelzine is available and generally more affordable than the brand-name Nardil. Prices can vary based on pharmacy, dosage, and insurance coverage. Manufacturer coupons or patient assistance programs may be available for eligible individuals.
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Medical Disclaimer
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