Posted by SLS on September 4, 2008, at 5:19:34
In reply to Substitute Medication, posted by Stuart on September 3, 2008, at 17:45:50
> I have been on the anti-depressant Parnate for some years now. After experimentation by my psychiatrist it proved the most effective treatment. Initially I required 3 tablets per day, reducing gradually over the years to only one. I am fully aware of the dietary and other warnings I have to bear in mind.
> I have since retired to Mexico and when my supply of Parnate ran out I decided to wean myself off medication. Sadly it didn't work, and I find myself depressed, lethargic and with a tendency to have sore eyes as well as being reluctant to mix socially as much as before. Believe me, I've tried to go without medication but without success.
> Unfortunately I am now faced with twin problems. Parnate is not available in Mexico. I could have it sent down by a friend in Canada or the US but only if I have a prescription.
> There seems to be no way round this predicament unless I can get an equivalent drug here.
> Has anybody been in a similar situation? Or has anybody an ideas?
>If you are in a bind, you can try moclobemide (Aurorix, Manerix). It is a reversible inhibitor of monoamine oxidase type A (RIMA). This drug is available in Mexico. It tends to be less effective than Parnate, but given your low dosage of Parnate, it might work well. Antidepressant effects often begin to emerge in the first week. You do not have to worry so much about dietary restrictions. It depends on the dosage. One study found that, even at higher dosages, up to 50mg of tyramine at one meal was safe.
Let us know how you do.
Good luck!
- Scott
poster:SLS
thread:850134
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20080903/msgs/850239.html