How does MAOI help treat depression?
MAOI (mono-amine oxidase inhibiters) operate as follows. Many of
the brain neurotransmitters are mono-amines. Sometimes when their
levels get low it causes depression. There is an enzyme that
destroys mono-amines by oxidizing them, it is called mono-amine
oxidase. By inhibiting mono-amine oxidase, MAOI raises the level of
mono-amine neurotransmitters, sometimes relieving depression.
However MAOI drugs have many undesirable side effects, and
require a restricted diet to avoid potentially fatal reactions.
Therefore they are rarely used, now that safer Tricyclic & SSRI
drugs are available.
MAOI drugs were the first antidepressants discovered, they were
originally developed and used to treat tuberculosis by killing the
bacteria and the antidepressant effect was discovered
accidentally.