Bipolar Disorder: Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) for Bipolar Disorder

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors treat depression by preventing the breakdown of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, increasing their availability. These medications are not used often because of their potential side effects and need for a special diet.

Antidepressants in this class of drugs used for bipolar disorder include:

• Nardil (phenelzine)
• Parnate (tranylcypromine)

Like other classes of antidepressants, the MAOIs take several weeks to begin working. Your doctor may also prescribe a sedative to help relieve anxiety, agitation, or sleep problems while the antidepressant begins to work. You will also need to monitor what foods you eat to avoid side effects.

MAOI Side Effects

Eating certain smoked, fermented, or pickled foods, drinking certain beverages, or taking certain medications can cause severe, sudden high blood pressure in combination with MAOIs. People taking these antidepressants must follow a special diet.

Common side effects may include:

• Difficulty getting to sleep
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting
• Dry mouth, blurred vision, and appetite changes
• High blood pressure and changes in heart rate and rhythm
• Muscle twitching and feelings of restlessness
• Loss of sexual desire or ability
• Weight gain

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Psychiatry and Psychology.