6G. Depression Medications

Drugs called antidepressants treat depression. They work by raising or lowering chemicals called neurotransmitters in the brain.

Neurotransmitters send messages to the rest of the body influencing moods and emotions.

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)

MAOIs were the first antidepressants developed. They are rarely prescribed now because of unwanted potential side effects and because patients can’t eat certain foods while taking them.

MAOIs do work. However, most providers only prescribe them when other antidepressants have failed.

MAOIs used to treat depression include:

• Isocarboxazid (Marplan)
• Phenelzine (Nardil)
• Selegiline (Emsam)
• Tranylcypromine (Parnate)

Common side effects include:

• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Insomnia
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Skin reaction (if administered through a patch)

Serious side effects include:

• Involuntary muscle jerks
• Low blood pressure
• Reduced sexual desire
• Difficulty reaching orgasm
• Weight gain
• Difficulty urinating
• Muscle cramps
• Prickling or tingling feeling in the skin (paresthesia)