Marplan and Nardil are examples of which class of antidepressant?

Marplan and Nardil belong to the class of antidepressants known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). This class works by inhibiting the action of the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which is responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain. By preventing this breakdown, MAOIs increase the levels of these neurotransmitters, helping to alleviate symptoms of depression.

The significance of MAOIs lies in their effectiveness for certain types of depression, particularly atypical depression, where other classes of antidepressants may be less effective. However, they are used less frequently due to dietary restrictions and potential side effects that require careful management.

In contrast, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) primarily target serotonin levels, while tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) affect multiple neurotransmitters but are not as selective as SSRIs or MAOIs. Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) work differently by increasing both serotonin and norepinephrine through a different mechanism.

Understanding the unique action of MAOIs is crucial for recognizing their place in the treatment of depression and why they differ from other antidepressant classes.