MAOIs or monoamine oxidase inhibitors are a group of drugs used to treat symptoms of depression , such as sadness or anxiety . This group of drugs is usually used if other types of antidepressants are less effective.
MAOIs work by increasing the amount of certain chemical compounds in the brain that play a role in regulating one's emotions and thinking abilities. That way, the symptoms of depression can be reduced. MAOIs are also used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
Even though it is safe to use, the risk of an MAOI interaction effect if taken together with other drugs or certain foods is higher compared to other types of antidepressants. Therefore, the use of MAOIs must be in accordance with the doctor's instructions.
Precautions Before Taking MAOIs
- Tell your doctor about any history of allergies you have. MAOIs should not be given to patients who are allergic to these drugs.
- Do not start or stop taking MAOIs without consulting your doctor first. Stopping drug consumption suddenly can cause withdrawal syndrome.
- Tell your doctor if you have had or currently have pheochromocytoma , kidney disease, mental disorders, epilepsy , diabetes, liver disease, heart disease, heart failure, high blood pressure, stroke , or blood clots.
- Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages or foods that contain high levels of tyramine , such as cheese, smoked foods, fermented foods, and processed soy beans, such as soy sauce, miso, or tofu.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy. Use effective contraception while on treatment with this drug.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications, especially antidepressants , painkillers, and cold and allergy medications; supplements, such as St. John's wort; or certain herbal products.
- Immediately see a doctor if you experience suicidal ideation or self-harm, drug allergic reactions , overdose, or serious side effects after using MAOIs.
MAOI Side Effects and Dangers
Here are some effects that can appear after consuming MAOIs:
- Dry mouth
- Nauseous
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Drowsiness
- Insomnia
- Headache or dizziness
- Weight gain
- Decreased sexual desire
- pins and needles
- Muscle cramp
Immediately go to the emergency room or the nearest doctor if you have an overdose or serotonin syndrome , which can be characterized by anxiety, high fever, excessive sweating, palpitations, and loss of body coordination.
MAOI Types, Trademarks, and Dosages
The following are the types of drugs that are included in the corticosteroid class, along with trademarks, dosage forms, and doses according to the condition and age of the patient:
Isocarboxazid
Dosage form: Tablets
Trademark: -
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the isocarboxazide drug page .
Phenelzine
Dosage form: Tablets
Trademark: -
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the phenelzine drug page .
tranylcypromine
Dosage form: Tablets
Trademark: -
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the tranylcypromine drug page .
Selegiline
Dosage form: Tablets, capsules
Trademark: -
To find out the dosage and further information about this drug, please open the selegiline drug page .