Monoamine oxidase A
Also known as: MAO-A, MAOA
Mitochondrial enzyme that degrades serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine (and dietary tyramine). It is selectively inhibited by moclobemide.
MAO-A inhibition raises synaptic monoamines; combination with SSRIs, tramadol, pethidine or dextromethorphan can cause serotonin syndrome, and tyramine-rich food can cause a hypertensive crisis.
Washout intervals (2 weeks) are required between MAO inhibitors and SSRIs/serotonergics; tyramine-rich foods (aged cheese, beer, cured sausage) can cause a hypertensive crisis.
