What type of medication is commonly prescribed for treatment-resistant depression?

MAOIs, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors, are often prescribed for treatment-resistant depression, particularly when other antidepressant options have failed to produce significant results. These medications work by blocking the activity of monoamine oxidase, an enzyme responsible for the breakdown of neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain. By preventing this breakdown, MAOIs can increase levels of these neurotransmitters, which may lead to improvements in mood and depressive symptoms.

While SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), tricyclics, and SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) are commonly used as first-line treatments for depression, they may not be effective for all patients, especially those with more severe or chronic forms of the condition. In such cases, clinicians may turn to MAOIs due to their different mechanism of action and potential effectiveness in cases where other medications have not worked. It is important to note that MAOIs require dietary restrictions and careful monitoring due to possible interactions with certain foods and medications, which is a consideration when prescribing them for treatment-resistant depression.