Definition

Noun: A monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) used as an antidepressant medication. It works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that help maintain mental balance.

Examples of Usage

• The psychiatrist prescribed isocarboxazid for treatment-resistant depression.
• Due to its potential side effects, isocarboxazid is typically not a first-line treatment.
• Patients taking isocarboxazid must follow a strict diet to avoid dangerous interactions.

Advanced Usage

• Pharmacological Class: The term is used specifically within medical and pharmacological contexts to refer to this particular drug, often in discussions about psychopharmacology or the history of antidepressants.
• "Isocarboxazid therapy": Refers to the course of treatment using this medication.
  • The patient responded well to six months of isocarboxazid therapy.

Variants and Related Words

• Marplan: The former brand name under which isocarboxazid was marketed.
• MAOI / Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor: The class of drugs to which isocarboxazid belongs.

Synonyms

• Antidepressant
• MAOI (Monoamine oxidase inhibitor)
• Psychoactive drug

Notes on Meaning

This word has a single, highly specific meaning in modern English. It refers exclusively to the chemical compound and pharmaceutical drug. It is not used in general language or metaphorically.

Noun

1. a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (trade name Marplan) that is used to treat clinical depression