PHARMACOLOGY OF MOCLOBEMIDE

Moclobemide is a reversible inhibitor of monoamine oxidase (MAO) with clear preference for the A type (so-called RIMA). The enzyme inhibitio n shows complex kinetics, and the molecular mechanism of interaction w ith the enzyme is not yet clear. Moclobemide increases the extracellul ar concentration of the monoamines in rat brain and decreases the leve l of their metabolites. Neither a loss nor a cumulation of activity ha s been observed after chronic treatment. Reversibility of MAO-A inhibi tion was demonstrated in vitro as well as in vivo. In various animal b ehavioral models, in particular in a novel model of stress-induced anh edonia, moclobemide was as effective as standard antidepressants. Mocl obemide improves cognitive functions that are impaired in experimental situations. A neuroprotective action is seen in rats subjected to tra nsient global ischemia/-hypoxia. Moclobemide lacks anticholinergic and other effects and only slightly increases the pressor effect of orall y administered tyramine. Possible links between MAO-A inhibition and t he various effects of moclobemide on brain function are discussed.