HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) for Depression
Why It Is Used
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are usually given to people with depression who:
- Did not get better with other antidepressants.
- Cannot tolerate the side effects of other antidepressants.
- Have a family or personal history of successful treatment with MAOIs.
- Have unusual symptoms of depression, such as weight gain and sleeping more.
MAOIs usually are not the first medicines given for depression, because they have serious side effects when combined with certain foods and/or medicines.
MAOIs are not recommended for children or teens.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: May 14, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry |
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