Betel Nut - Marplan (Isocarboxazid) Interaction
Herbal: Betel Nut
Drug: Isocarboxazid
Brand names:
Marplan

Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 18, 2025
Interaction Details
Isocarboxazid is classified as belonging to the following category: Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Maois)
Animal research suggests that betel nut extract can inhibit monoamine oxidase. Theoretically, this may affect serotonin levels, potentially causing additive adverse effects if used with MAOIs. However, moclobemide, an MAOI, has been used with apparent safety to help improve betel nut chewing cessation rates in one small clinical trial.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
References
- Dar, A. and Khatoon, S. Behavioral and biochemical studies of dichloromethane fraction from the Areca catechu nut. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 1-1-2000;65(1):1-6.
- Hung CC, Lee CH, Ko AM, Lane HY, Lee CP, Ko YC. Effect of antidepressants for cessation therapy in betel-quid use disorder: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci 2020;29:e125.
Isocarboxazid Overview
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Isocarboxazid is used to treat depression in people who have not been helped by other antidepressants. Isocarboxazid is in a class of medications called monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. It works by increasing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain that help maintain mental balance.
Betel Nut - More Interactions
Betel Nut interacts with 226 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
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Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.