Moclobemide,a new reversible MAO inhibitor — interaction with tyramine and tricyclic antidepressants in healthy volunteers and depressive patients

Moclobemide is a new, short-acting, reversible MAOI, preferentially affecting type A MAO. We have studied the interaction of moclobemide with tyramine and tricyclic antidepressants in healthy volunteers and depressive patients.Neither tyramine capsules (50 mg) nor cheese and wine meals (65 mg tyramine) produced a significant change in blood pressure and heart rate after single or repeated doses of moclobemide in volunteers. In contrast, after 1 weeks' treatment with tranylcypromine pressure response to cheese and wine meals was severe. Blood pressure sensitivity to IV tyramine was slightly increased (1.5–2 fold;P<0.05 versus predrug) during moclobemide treatment in patients and volunteers. This increase was neutralised by concomitant administration of desipramine in volunteers. Amitriptyline was well tolerated when given to patients after or together with moclobemide.In conclusion, moclobemide appears relatively safe with respect to tyramine sensitivity and interaction with tricyclics.