iproniazid

Iproniazid is a non-selective, irreversible monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) of the hydrazine class. It was originally developed as an antitubercular agent but became the first antidepressant drug after its mood-elevating effects were discovered in patients treated for tuberculosis. Iproniazid inhibits both MAO-A and MAO-B enzymes, preventing the breakdown of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and serotonin, thereby increasing their levels in the brain. Its mechanism involves direct inhibition and formation of an active metabolite (isopropylhydrazine), leading to irreversible enzyme inhibition. Although it revolutionized depression treatment in the 1950s, iproniazid was withdrawn from clinical use due to hepatotoxicity and replaced by safer alternatives[1][2][3][4][5][7].

Brand names

Iprazid

Other names

Iproniazide