MAO - what is it?

Monoamine oxidase inhib itors are substances that inhibit the activity of enzymes responsible for breaking down so-called neurotransmitters. It is important to remember that drugs belonging to the MAO class cause strong reactions with many substances found, for example, in the daily diet. Interestingly, eating mouldy cheese, chocolates and red wine should be avoided while taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors show hepatotoxic effects, i.e. damage to the liver, so it is very important to use only under medical supervision. MAO inhibitors are widely used in the treatment of, among others:

• depression and phobias (use of MAO-A inhibitors containing monclobemide, which inhibits the breakdown of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine),
• parkinson's disease (use of MAO-B family inhibitors based on the action of selegiline and rasagiline, among others, which increase dopamine concentrations in the central nervous system).

MAO inhibitors have undergone a major revolution, with three generations of inhibitors now available on the market: generation I - containing mainly hydrazine derivatives (so-called non-selective and irreversible MAO inhibitors), generation II - so-called selective and irreversible MAO inhibitors, and generation III - selective and reversible MAO inhibitors.

Serotonin reuptake inhibitors provide an increase in the concentration of serotonin in the blood, thereby stimulating serotonin receptors on the surface of brain cells, resulting in a gradual improvement in the patient's mood.

Medication versus MAO inhibitors

Many medicinal products cannot be used concomitantly with MAO drugs. It is important to bear in mind that many medicinal preparations can exacerbate or inhibit the effects of monoamine oxidase inhibitors, which poses a serious risk. For example, the use of medications containing metoclopramide exacerbates the effects of MAO inhibitors. The combination of monoamine oxidase inhibitors with alcohol has the effect of suddenly increasing blood pressure, which in extreme cases can lead to stroke. Drugs with neuroleptic effects potentiate the cardiotoxic and convulsive effects of MAO inhibitors, posing a real risk to the patient's life.

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What to do to avoid harming yourself?

If you are taking medicines that are MAO inhibitors, it is essential that you consult your doctor about taking any other medicinal products. If you are not sure whether you can take an over-the-counter medicine while taking MAO inhibitors - consult your pharmacist, who should also be able to clarify your doubts. The leaflet that comes with each medicinal product is an excellent source of information - in the leaflet you will find information about potential, possible interactions. Remember - combining medicines without knowing how they work can be harmful and lead to deterioration of health or even death.