Question

Drugs that are monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors would most likely __________.

A. stimulate β-2 receptors and cause an increase in heart rate and dilation of bronchioles
B. decrease the amount of NE destroyed and may be used as an antidepressant
C. activate the parasympathetic division and allow for normal digestive system activities
D. inhibit uptake of dopamine and cause depression
E. block ACh receptors on skeletal muscle and cause flaccid paralysis

Answer 1

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) block the breakdown of monoamines like norepinephrine, enhancing their availability and are therefore used as antidepressants, particularly when other treatments are unsuccessful.

Step-by-step explanation:

Drugs that are monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors would most likely decrease the amount of norepinephrine (NE) destroyed and may be used as an antidepressant. This is because MAOIs block the oxidative deamination of naturally occurring monoamines, such as NE, thereby increasing their availability in the synaptic cleft. This pharmacological action has made MAOIs useful as antidepressants, particularly in cases where other antidepressants, like tricyclics, are ineffective. Although they were once used to treat conditions like hypertension, their psychiatric application has now become more focused on treating depression with certain neurotic features.