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a drug that prevents the activity of the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO) in brain tissue and therefore affects mood. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, phenelzine, and tranylcypromine. These drugs are antidepressant, whose use is now restricted because of the severity of their side-effects. These include interactions with other drugs (e.g. ephedrine, amphetamine) and with foods containing tyramine (e.g. cheese) to produce a sudden increase in blood pressure. See also moclobemide, selegiline.
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monoamine oxidase inhibitor.Medical dictionary. 2011.