MAOI

Question 1

Which group of patients do we use monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) in?

Answer 1

Those with atypical depression (hypersomnia, increased appetite, oversensitivity to rejection). However, even in this group they are hardly ever used.

Question 2

Why are monoamine oxidase inhibitors dangerous?

Answer 2

They lead to a build up of some amines such as tyramine. This can lead to a hypertensive crisis.

Question 3

Which foods should a patient on monoamine oxidase inhibitors avoid?

Answer 3

Cheese
Yeast and protein extract - Marmite, Bovril 
Chianti wine 
Beer 
Soya bean extract

Question 4

What are the early warning signs of a hypertensive crisis caused by high levels of tyramine as a result of treatment of depression using monoamine oxidase inhibitors?

Answer 4

Throbbing headache

Question 5

Name some monoamine oxidase inhibitors.

Answer 5

Phenelzine
Tranylcypromine
Isocarboxazid

Question 6

What is ‘Selegine’ used for?

Answer 6

MOAB licensed to treat parkinson’s