monoamine oxidase inhibitor
noun Pharmacology.
any of various substances, as isocarboxazid and phenelzine, that block enzymatic breakdown of certain monoamine neurotransmitters: used to treat severe depression. Abbreviation: MAOI
Also called
MAO inhibitor.
Origin of monoamine oxidase inhibitor
First recorded in 1960–65
Words nearby monoamine oxidase inhibitor
monoacid,
monoalphabetic substitution,
monoamide,
monoamine,
monoamine oxidase,
monoamine oxidase inhibitor,
monoaminergic,
monoammonium phosphate,
monoamniotic twins,
monoao,
monoatomic
British Dictionary definitions for monoamine oxidase inhibitor
monoamine oxidase inhibitor
noun
biochem
an agent that inhibits the action of monoamine oxidase. Such inhibitors are used in the treatment of depression
Abbreviation: MAOI
Medical definitions for monoamine oxidase inhibitor
monoamine oxidase inhibitor
n.
Any of a class of antidepressant and hypotensive drugs that block the action of monoamine oxidase in the brain, thereby allowing the accumulation of monoamines such as norepinephrine.
Scientific definitions for monoamine oxidase inhibitor
monoamine oxidase inhibitor
Any of a class of antidepressant drugs that block the action of monoamine oxidase in the brain, thereby allowing the accumulation of monoamines such as norepinephrine, which can alter mood.