MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors)
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are antidepressants that work by blocking the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which breaks down neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. They are used for treatment-resistant depression and have significant dietary and drug interaction risks.
Mechanism of Action
MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) work by blocking an enzyme called monoamine oxidase in the brain. This enzyme's job is to break down important brain chemicals like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. By stopping monoamine oxidase from working, MAOIs allow these brain chemicals to build up. Higher levels of these chemicals can help improve mood, reduce anxiety, and improve movement control in certain conditions.
Clinical Uses
MAOIs are mainly used to treat depression, especially when other antidepressant medicines haven't worked. They can be very helpful for people with atypical depression, which has specific symptoms like increased appetite or sleeping too much. Some MAOIs are also used to treat Parkinson's disease, helping to improve muscle control and reduce tremors. They are generally considered for patients who haven't responded well to other treatments.
Side Effects & Safety
Common side effects of MAOIs can include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and trouble sleeping. More serious side effects can occur, especially if certain foods or other medications are taken with MAOIs, leading to a dangerous rise in blood pressure called a hypertensive crisis. This class of drugs has a black box warning due to the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially in young adults.
MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) Medications (5)
PHENELZINE SULFATE
Brand: phenelzine sulfate
PHENELZINE SULFATE (brand name: phenelzine sulfate) is a MAOIs. INDICATIONS AND USAGE Phenelzine sulfate has been found to be effective in depressed patients clinically characterized as "atypical," "nonendogenous," or "neurotic." These patients often have mixed anxiety and depression and phobic or hypochondriacal features. There is less conclusive evidence of…
$30-$80/month/month
RASAGILINE
Brand: Rasagiline
RASAGILINE (brand name: Rasagiline) is a MAOIs. 1 INDICATIONS & USAGE Rasagiline tablets are indicated for the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD). Rasagiline tablets, a monoamine oxidase (MAO)-B inhibitor (MAOI), is indicated for the treatment of Parkinson's disease
$400–$800/month/month
SELEGILINE
Brand: EMSAM
SELEGILINE (brand name: EMSAM) is a MAOIs. 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE EMSAM (selegiline transdermal system) is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) indicated for the treatment of adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) [see Clinical Studies (14) ] . EMSAM ® (selegiline transdermal system) is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) indicated…
$800–$2,000/month/month
TRANYLCYPROMINE
Brand: Tranylcypromine
TRANYLCYPROMINE (brand name: Tranylcypromine) is a MAOIs. 1 INDICATIONS & USAGE Tranylcypromine tablets are indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adult patients who have not responded adequately to other antidepressants. Tranylcypromine tablets are not indicated for the initial treatment of MDD due to the potential for serious…
$300–$800/month/month
TRANYLCYPROMINE SULFATE
Brand: PARNATE
TRANYLCYPROMINE SULFATE (brand name: PARNATE) is a MAOIs. 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE PARNATE is indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adult patients who have not responded adequately to other antidepressants. PARNATE is not indicated for the initial treatment of MDD due to the potential for serious adverse reactions and drug…
$30-$80/month/month
Compare MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) Prices
See typical monthly costs, generic availability, and savings options for all 5 MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) medications side-by-side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Resources
Medical Disclaimer
The information on RxGuide is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.