Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAO-Is) Mnemonic

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are indicated for the treatment of atypical depression. Other reported uses include hypochondriasis, anxiety, bulimia and personality disorders.

MAO-Is inhibit the activity of monoamine oxidase, preventing the breakdown of monoamine neurotransmitters and thereby increasing the availability of serotonin, NE, and dopamine.

The acronym MAO "Takes Pride In Shanghai" is used to recall the MAO-I drugs: Tranylcypromine, Phenelzine, Isocarboxazid and Selegiline.

Tranylcypromine is a nonselective MAO-I, with its main indication being for the treatment of major depressive disorder. It has also been used uncommonly for mood disorders.

This is a nonselective MAO-I indicated for major depressive disorder. Phenelzine has been known to be effective in patients who have failed first and second line treatments for depression.

Isocarboxazid is a non-selective MAO-I drug indicated for depression, anxiety and panic disorders.

Selegiline selectively inhibits MAO-B at low doses, which preferentially metabolizes dopamine, over NE and serotonin. This leads to increased levels of dopamine availability. It is typically used as an adjunct to L-Dopa for Parkinson's treatment, as it enhances effects of L-Dopa treatment and decreases motor complications. At high doses, however, this drug loses its selectivity for MAO-B.