potent anti-depressants thought to regulate chemicals in the central nervous system; they should rarely be the first medication used because they may interact dangerously with many other medications, foods and beverages A-C, D-M, N-R, S-Z

An older class of antidepressants, which are now rarely prescribed as a first treatment option. Nardil® (phenelzine sulfate tablets, USP)* and Parnate® (tranylcypromine sulfate)† are examples of MAOIs. Close Window

A class of antidepressant medications usually prescribed for people who have not responded to tricyclics, or who have certain forms of depression with symptoms including an increase in weight, appetite or sleep. MAOIs may also be used for cases of mixed anxiety and depression, depression accompanied by pain, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and bipolar depression. People taking MAOIs must adhere to a special diet because of the interaction of the medications with certain foods.