What do MAO inhibitors do to alleviate depression?

MAO inhibitors, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors, alleviate depression primarily by inhibiting the action of an enzyme known as monoamine oxidase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. By inhibiting this enzyme, MAO inhibitors effectively increase the levels of these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft, leading to enhanced mood and alleviation of depressive symptoms.

The increased availability of norepinephrine and serotonin results in improved synaptic transmission and contributes to the overall therapeutic effects observed in patients suffering from depression. This mechanism emphasizes the importance of neurotransmitter balance in mood regulation and highlights why MAO inhibitors can be effective in treating major depressive disorders.