Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors: 30 Years Of Progress?

Abstract

It is just over 30 years since MAOIs were first introduced into clinical practice in the United Kingdom. Early work suggested their usefulness in atypical states and in patients with reverse biological symptoms. Despite controversy the literature has persistently shown their continuing usefulness in these groups. Certain groups of patients with phobic symptoms are also probably helped. But controversy remains concerning other groups of patients. Combination therapy would now probably be considered safe and effective if carefully supervised and fears about the tyramine reaction are probably exaggerated.