1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Bipolar Disorder

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors

Antidepressants are frequently prescribed to alleviate the symptoms of depression for those with bipolar disorder (manic depression). Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are a subclass of antidepressants. Found here are resources and information regarding this class of drugs.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors - commonly known as MAOIs - were the second type of antidepressants developed, after the tricyclics. Because of the way they work, MAOIs have significant dietary restrictions and important limitations on what other drugs may be taken at the same time. Thus they are not considered to be the drugs of first choice when treating depression.
MAOIs and Diet
This article explains why there are dietary restrictions for people taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors - MAOI antidepressants. Also included is a list of foods to avoid, some foods to limit, and some interesting information about pizza.
MAOI Antidepressants - Side Effects
MAOIs are a family of antidepressant medications. Due to their mechanism of action they can have dangerous side effects.
Drugs to Avoid
It's not totally understood how various MAOIs interact with the body. Some are more likely to have negative interactions with foods and drugs than others. To be as safe as possible, avoid the following drugs while you are taking an MAOI antidepressant and for two weeks after stopping it.
Foods You Should Avoid on MAOIs
This is a review of the dietary restrictions that should be observed when a patient is receiving monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) therapy.
Explore Bipolar Disorder
About.com Special Features

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Bipolar Disorder
  4. Medications
  5. Antidepressants
  6. MAOIs

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.