Tranylcypromine withdrawal phenomena.

The gradual or abrupt withdrawal of tranylcypromine can result in syndromes ranging in severity from mild discomfort to incapacitation. Five patients were subjected to the withdrawal of tranylcypromine. Vignettes describing the withdrawal syndrome experienced by these patients are presented. These patients suffered from severe depression or impairment of cognition in association with a reduction in their daily dose of tranylcypromine. The authors conclude that reductions in a patient's dose or the discontinuation of tranylcypromine warrant the careful supervision of a physician.