Monoamine
oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), act as inhibitors of the enzyme that metabolizes
serotonin and catecholamines (adrenaline, noradrenaline and dopamine). MAOIs
increase the concentration of these neurotransmitters in the central nervous
system. They do not show greater efficacy or special “benefits” compared to
TCA, but show greater side effects. Among these: excitement, insomnia, tremors,
hallucinations, hypotension, sweating, delayed ejaculation, urinary retention,
skin reactions, weight gain. In some severe cases, MAOIs may cause hypertensive
crises with even fatal brain hemorrhage, preceded by severe headaches, vomiting
and chest pain. In addition, they produce toxic effects in interaction with
foods rich in tyramine, such as cheese, wine, beer, liver, tripe, herrings,
beans, bananas and figs.
The Vital Needs Theory - page 29