Which Drugs Are MAOI Antidepressants?
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are prescription medications used in the treatment of depression. MAOIs were the first type of medication created to treat depression. These medications help with depression by keeping levels of dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine high within the brain. According to the Mayo Clinic, MAOIs typically have worse side effects than other depression medications and are therefore usually prescribed as a last resort. Individuals taking MAOIs must avoid certain foods and other medications that may interact negatively with the medication.
Following are the four MAOIs specifically approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat clinical depression:
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Isocarboxazid (Marplan)
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Marplan is an MAOI that is usually used only for the temporary treatment of depression. Marplan is typically given for a period of six weeks or less.
Tranylcypromin (Parnate)
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Parnate is prescribed in dosages of 30 mg or 60 mg to treat major depression.
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Phenelzine (Nardil)
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Nardil is prescribed to treat major depression along with phobias or anxiety. Nardil is typically prescribed in 15 mg doses that are taken three times each day. The maximum dosage is 90 mg per day. Once symptoms subside, the dosages may be decreased.
Selegiline (Emsam)
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Emsam is the first depression medication contained in a skin patch. A new patch is applied each day so that a steady stream of medication can be absorbed into the blood over a 24-hour period.
Side Effects of MAOIs
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Side effects of MAOIs may include headache, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, sexual dysfunction, sleep problems, tremors, blurry vision, restlessness, weight gain and increased sweating.
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