Don ’t overlook monoamine oxidase inhibitors in psychiatric practice

AbstractMonoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), including phenelzine, tranylcypromine, moclobemide and selegiline are established and effective antidepressants that deserve wider consideration in refractory mood and anxiety disorders. Concerns regarding adverse events, such as tyramine-related hypertension and serotonin syndrome contributed to the decline in MAOI use, despite both events potentially occurring with other drug classes, including serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Furthermore, the early promise of greater efficacy with SSRIs was another factor associated with diminishing MAOI use. Adverse events and drug interactions are generally manageable with careful prescribing, while educating patients about dietary restrictions can greatly reduce the risk of tyramine-related hypertension. The risks associated with MAOI use are outweighed by their benefits in persistent depression, which itself carries significant health risks when undertreated.
Source: Drugs and Therapy Perspectives - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Source Type: research