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MAOI
Monoamine oxidiase inhibitors (MAOI)s are a class of antidepressants that help
brain neurotransmitters remain active longer, which may lead to a reduction in
symptoms of depression (1). MAOIs are used much less frequently than tricyclic
antidepressants and related antidepressants, or SSRIs and related antidepressants
because of the dangers of drug and dietary interactions. They may be more
useful in the treatment of atypical depression, for example when the patient is
overeating, oversleeping, or oversensitive to criticism, with sustained depression
of mood. The therapeutic effects of MAOI may take more than 3 weeks to
appear and at least 6 weeks may be necessary for maximal response. Replacement
by a tricyclic must not start earlier than 2 weeks after discontinuation of an
MAOI otherwise serious drug interactions may appear. Prescription of an
MAOI should be undertaken by, or in consultation with, specialist psychiatric
services (1). Reference: - NICE (2004). Management of depression
in primary and secondary care.
- Anderson IM et al (2000). Evidence-based
guidelines for treating depressive disorders with antidepressants: a revision
of the 1993 British Association for Psychopharmacology guidelines. J Psychopharmacol;
14: 3-20.
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