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Phenelzine reduces plasma vitamin B6
D E Malcolm1, P H Yu, R C Bowen
1Department of Psychiatry, Royal University Hospital, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience : JPN
|November 1, 1994
Summary
Phenelzine medication significantly lowers plasma levels of vitamin B6 (pyridoxal phosphate) by about 46% in patients. However, no vitamin B6 deficiency symptoms like peripheral neuropathy were observed in this study.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor used to treat depression.
- Vitamin B6, in its active form pyridoxal phosphate, is crucial for numerous metabolic processes, including neurotransmitter synthesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of phenelzine on plasma levels of pyridoxal phosphate (PLP).
- To determine if there is a correlation between phenelzine dosage and PLP levels.
- To assess for clinical signs of vitamin B6 deficiency.
Main Methods:
- Plasma PLP levels were measured in 19 patients taking phenelzine.
- A control group was used for comparison.
- Phenelzine dosage and presence of neuropathy symptoms were recorded.
Main Results:
- Patients on phenelzine showed an average PLP level of 54% compared to the control group.
- No significant correlation was found between phenelzine dosage (30-90 mg) and PLP levels.
- No patients exhibited symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.
Conclusions:
- Phenelzine significantly reduces plasma pyridoxal phosphate levels.
- The reduction in PLP does not appear to correlate with phenelzine dosage within the studied range.
- Clinical vitamin B6 deficiency, specifically peripheral neuropathy, was not evident despite reduced PLP levels in patients taking phenelzine.