Marplan is a trade name for the generic drug isocarboxazid, and is used primarily as an antidepressant. It is also prescribed to treat serious cases of social anxiety, panic disorder, and is currently undergoing trials to become labeled to treat dementia-related disorders such as Parkinson's Disease.
Marplan is one of a class of medications call monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs. Along with phenelzine, it is one of only a few hydrazine-based MAOIs still in use. It's clinical effects are irreversible and non-selective, and--along with other MAOIs--is considered a treatment of last resort. It is a very powerful drug and so is prescribed less frequently than other medications.
Another reason Marplan is less frequently prescribed, despite its usefulness, is its long list of often serious side-effects. These include headaches, jaundice, chest pain, dizziness and fainting, diarrhea and constipation, forgetfulness, and tremors or uncontrollable shaking. It should not be taken alongside selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, amphetamines, antihistamines, barbiturates, caffeine, medications for allergies, asthma, cough or cold symptoms, or medications for seizures.
Finally, Marplan and other MAOIs often interact poorly with certain foods, especially those high in tyramine, including smoked meat, smoked poultry, smoked fish, smoked or aged cheese, certain fruits and vegetables, alcoholic beverages, and fermented yeast products. Your doctor will be able to give you a list of safe foods to eat.
Marplan is a powerful, effective medication option, but because of its many side-effects, interactions, and dietary restrictions, it should only be considered when other treatments have proven unsuccessful.
