MAO inhibitors use in depression

• Monoamine oxidase (MAO) converts serotonin to 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (HIAA)
• MAO will oxidatively deaminate compounds having an amino group attached to a carbon atom.
• This is similar to degradation of epinephrine .
• MAO inhibitors(e.g. iproniazid) will cause mood elevation.
• Small portion of serotonin is conjugated with sulfate or with glucuronic acid, and excreted through urine.