Maois: An Overview of Their History, Characteristics, and Uses
Abstract
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are a class of medications primarily used to treat major depressive disorder, but they also have a variety of other uses. This article provides a brief overview of the history of MAOIs, their characteristics, and evidence-based uses. The potential for interactions and side effects is also discussed.
History
The first MAOI, isoniazid, was discovered in 1952 as an antituberculosis drug. However, its antidepressant effects were not recognized until 1957 (Cole & Zieglgansberger, 2016). Since then, other MAOIs have been developed with different chemical structures and mechanisms of action, including phenelzine, tranylcypromine, and moclobemide (Guscott & Harmer, 2018).
Characteristics
MAOIs work by inhibiting the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which breaks down neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine (Guscott & Harmer, 2018). This inhibition leads to an increase in the concentration of these neurotransmitters in the brain, which can have an antidepressant effect (Guscott & Harmer, 2018). In addition, MAOIs can also affect other neurotransmitters, hormones, and metabolic pathways, leading to a variety of potential side effects (Guscott & Harmer, 2018).
Uses
MAOIs are primarily used to treat major depressive disorder, but they can also be used to treat panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (Guscott & Harmer, 2018). MAOIs can also be used to treat atypical depression, which is characterized by increased appetite and sleep, and is often resistant to other antidepressants (Guscott & Harmer, 2018).
Interactions and Side Effects
MAOIs can interact with a variety of medications and foods, so it is important to discuss all medications and dietary supplements with your doctor before starting an MAOI (Guscott & Harmer, 2018). Common side effects of MAOIs include insomnia, nausea, dizziness, and headaches (Guscott & Harmer, 2018).
Conclusion
MAOIs are a class of medications primarily used to treat major depressive disorder, but they also have a variety of other uses. They work by inhibiting the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which leads to an increase in the concentration of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. MAOIs can also interact with other medications and foods, and can cause a variety of side effects.
References
Cole, J. C., & Zieglgansberger, W. (2016). Monoamine oxidase inhibitors: Historical origins and development of MAOIs. Current Topics in Behavioral Neurosciences, 28, 1–19. https://doi.org/10.1007/7854_2015_436
Guscott, H., & Harmer, C. J. (2018). Monoamine oxidase inhibitors in psychiatry: An update. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 212(1), 3–9. https://doi.org/10.1192/bjp.2017.7