Monoamine oxidase inhibitors

Also known as MAOIs, one of the 3 main types of antidepressant drug. They work by preventing the breakdown of certain neurotransmitters by the enzyme monoamine oxidase. The increased levels of neurotransmitters that result are associated with improved mood. Common drugs include phenelzine and isocarboxazid. All MAOIs interact with certain other drugs and foods such as cheese and red wine; but moclobemide is known as a reversible MAOI, which makes the adverse reactions less likely to occur.