MAOI Antidepressants: Pharmacology Made Easy & Clinically Relevant

Dr. Busti breaks down monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)—where they still fit in modern care, how they work, and how to use them safely.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• Why MAOIs remain relevant for treatment-resistant depression
• How irreversible MAO-A/B inhibition elevates serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine
• Practical washout rules (why 14 days after MAOI, generally 7 days before starting an MAOI; longer with fluoxetine)
• High-yield differences (e.g., selegiline transdermal for depression vs. oral formulations for Parkinson’s disease)
• Key drug–drug risks (serotonergic agents, certain opioids like tramadol, linezolid/methylene blue)
• Tyramine-containing foods and counseling to prevent hypertensive crisis

Whether you’re prepping for boards or refining clinical practice, this walkthrough turns “what” into the why behind safer, smarter antidepressant selection.

Download the companion tables (indications, interactions, tyramine foods, counseling checklists) to keep handy for boards, precepting, and bedside teaching at https://www.thisiswhy.health/topics/pharmacology-review-maoi-monoamine-oxidase-inhibitors-antidepressants

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard in this content.