MAOI
Pronunciation: MAY-oh-eye
Also written as: MAOI — Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor
Monoamine oxidase inhibitor; an older class of antidepressants requiring strict dietary restrictions.
Full Definition
An acronym for monoamine oxidase inhibitor, a class of antidepressants that work by blocking the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which breaks down neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. MAOIs include medications like phenelzine, tranylcypromine, and selegiline. These medications require strict dietary restrictions to avoid tyramine-rich foods that can cause dangerous hypertensive crises. Due to their interaction profile and dietary requirements, MAOIs are typically reserved for treatment-resistant depression. The term is almost always used in its abbreviated form in clinical practice.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalized as MAOI. Plural form is MAOIs. Full term is rarely used in clinical writing.
In Context
- "The patient was counseled extensively about dietary restrictions before starting the MAOI." — Medication counseling note
- "A washout period of at least two weeks is required when switching from an SSRI to an MAOI." — Clinical guideline