Moclobemide is a reversible monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOIs) selective for the isoform A (RIMA). This molecule is indicated in the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder. he monoamine oxidase is an enzyme that catalyzes the oxidative deamination of many amines like serotonin, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and dopamine. There are 2 isoforms of this protein: A and B. The first one is found in cells located in the periphery and breakdown serotonin, norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine, and tyramine. The second one, the B isoform, breakdowns phenylethylamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine, and tyramine. This isoform is found in the extracellular tissues and mostly in the brain. The mechanism of action of the MAOIs is still not determined, it is thought that they act by increasing free serotonin and norepinephrine (shown in this pathway) concentrations and/or by altering the concentrations of other amines in the CNS. MAO A inhibition is thought to be more relevant to antidepressant activity than the inhibition caused by MAO B. Selective MAO B inhibitors have no antidepressant effects. This drug is administered as an oral tablet. An overdose would result in hypertension, drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, tremors, headache, agitation, muscle rigidity, and seizures.

Moclobemide Amine Oxidase B Serotonin Antidepressant Pathway References