ANTI-DEPRESSANTS – INTRODUCTION
One group of drugs used in treating depression and other emotional troubles, such as obsessive-compulsive disorders and phobias, may have serious side-effects.
These are the mono-amine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI).
Mono-amines are chemicals which occur naturally in the body. Adrenalin, the main hormone which stimulates the body in the “fight or flight” mechanism, is a mono-amine. Certain other mono-amines are concerned with the transmission of nervous impulses in the brain.
There is an enzyme in the body, mono-amine oxidase, which breaks down these mono-amines. The MAOI group of drugs inhibits the action of the enzyme and allows the chemicals to act unrestrained.
This, apparently, is of benefit in treating emotional disorders. However, some side-effects may develop if certain mono-amines are in the diet.
The amino-acid tyramine occurs in many foods. It has a tendency to cause a rise in blood pressure, but normally the action is counteracted by the enzyme. When the MAOI drugs are taken the action may be blocked and, if these foods are taken, a dangerous rise in blood pressure, associated with severe headache, may occur.
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